Penton Owners Group

I was just notified that Thomas was admitted to the hospital and I will update this site as I get more information.  Thanks.

Ron Carbaugh

Keep us posted, Tom is a great guy! He is on my prayer list

Ron, thanks for the heads up on Thomas.

I have him on my prayer list.

I just found out about TC this morning.
His daughter Hannah posted on his facebook page an hour ago that he is getting an MRI at Greenville Memorial Hospital. She posted he has a brain tumor, but I don't know anything other than that.

Godspeed Thomas.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

I haven't spoke with TC or his family, but his wife posted this on his facebook page:
 
"Hello to all of Thomas's dear friends, a note from his wife, Clinta; Thomas has had some feeling of numbness on the left side of his body for about 3 weeks. The numbness got worse yesterday so we decided it best to go to the emergency room last night. When arriving, we figured that we would be there for a couple of h...ours and leave with a diagnosis of a pinched nerve. Unfortunately, the outcome was much different.
After reading the CAT scan, the doctor informed us that Thomas has a brain mass that is bleeding into his brain. So, he was transferred to Greenville Memorial late last night because there testing and neurological capabilities are the best in Greenville. He underwent an MRI this morning and we learned late this after...noon by the neurosurgeon that he does in fact have a brain tumor with slight bleeding.
The surgeon suspects that his tumor is a primary tumor meaning that he doesn't have tumors in other places and it's spread to his brain. But, due to the massive swelling surrounding the tumor, they can not discern whether it is one solid mass like a tennis ball pressing on a nerve cluster or whether it is grown finger... like qualities and has spread throughout the nerve cluster.
He is taking steroids to reduce the swelling and after insisting with the doctor, he has been allowed to come home with strict orders to minimize activity and to continue to take the meds. He will have another, more detailed MRI, most likely on Thursday, (he has to wait for the dye to leave his body before they can do... another scan) and that will determine which scenario his tumor is in.
If it is one mass, then they will operate and try to remove as much of the tumor as possible. In the other scenario, his only option is chemo and radiation because if it has spread finger-like, they won't be able to operate and remove it. We are so appreciative of all the prayers, thoughts and well-wishes and ask ...that everyone continue to pray for his well-being and for positive results."


Keeping him in our prayers.




Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Robert....thank you for the information. My prayers are with Thomas and his family. If there is anything he or the family needs, please don't hesitate to ask.

Steve Minor
Wilmington, NC

Thanks for the updates.  I just spoke with Thomas and he is resting.  Tests will continue this later this week.  Thanks for everyones Prayers.

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas,You'll be in my prayers-hang tough and get well soon.
                                                             Ric

ric emmal

TC,

I will keep you in my prayers also.

Take care,

Clay

Hang in there Thomas.
Rod G

Ron, thanks so much for the disturbing news, yes Thomas is a great guy. and oh yes I will be praying. Thomas hang in there. In this situation... subborness is a virtue.

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thomas is resting at home. More tests to come.
Dwight

Will say a prayer for Thomas and add his name to our church prayer list.

Patrick

Met Thomas last year at White Lightin CC.  Great guy with great compassion.  Praying for his complete and speedy recovery.  -EP

Ernie P.
Chattanooga, TN

Thomas,
 Want to see you at Combs for the ISDT reunion ride, so get well soon!! Hang tuff. Be proactive, ask alot of questions. Don't be afraid to seek second opinions. Fight Baby!!
       Good luck, Paul(Socal)

Thomas,  Hang tough, buddy.  Keep your faith.  You're in our prayers.

Get well soon Thomas.

Lew Mayer

I keep checking the site to see if there is any good new, I know I am being silly... It is too soon... still I check, Get well my brother...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Just an update.  Thomas is having more tests which take time and then the results will take additional time.  This down time is a killer, so Please keep Thomas and his Family in your thoughts and Prayers.   I want to thank the people that either are POG Members or just read the site everyday for their emails of their personal or Family fight with cancer.  We share the good word that some of us have had treatment that was very successful.  Thanks again for all the kind words about Thomas.....he is a Good Family Man and always willing to help others.

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas,

   If there is strength in numbers know that you have an army behind you. Best wishes to you and your family during these difficult times.

Paul

Dear Family and Friends,
To keep you up to date on Thomas Carmichael, I created a CaringBridge website. You can follow Thomas's progress and show your support.
Visit Thomas's website in two easy ways:

    1. Visit the CaringBridge website by clicking the link below.
        http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/thomascarmichael

    2. Enter the website name, thomascarmichael, at //www.CaringBridge.org.


Show your support for Thomas
• Visit and keep up to date.
• Leave a message in the guestbook.
• Receive e-mail notifications when the journal is updated.

Thank you.
Clinta




Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

Amen to that Ron.
Spoke with TC yesterday and he said he slept much better at home.
He's waiting on the next MRI on Monday, then surgery Wed.
His spirits are up, and thanks all that have been praying for him.
This is Clinta's update on facebook:

Update on Thomas: He is scheduled to have his secondary MRI early Monday morning, the 22nd. He will have surgery on Wednesday, the 24th. The procedure won't be determined until we get the results back on the MRI. If the tumor is fragmented, it will be a biopsy, if it's whole he will have a craniotomy.

We've been trying to get together for a ride in the woods, and I told him I'm not cancelling.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Hi Miss Clinta,
You beat me to the post this morning. Take care of that boy, we want him around a lot longer.
Take care of yourself, and if you need anything, know you can call me anytime. Tell the kids to hang tough, and I'll get up there to visit.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

This website is great and a special Thanks to Thomas' Family for sharing the up to date information.  Please leave a note of encouragement if you have time.  I will guarantee you these notes are read and they have true meaning to the person receiving them.

Ron Carbaugh

Hello to all my dear friends;

How does a man thank all of his friends adequately for the outpouring of love, support and prayers as I've been given since Monday?  To say I've been overwhelmed, would be an understatement.  I am amazed at the kindness that has been shown to me and the comfort and peace that it gives me is immeasurable.  Thank you all!




Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

Thomas,
Get well soon.

Thomas,Hang tough & beat this deal.We`re praying for ya. Bill&Michelle

Thanks for all the kind words for Thomas and his Family and for those that have taken the time to sign the Guest Book.

Ron Carbaugh

nice to see so many adding their thoughts both here and on the carebridge site... way to go, you guys rock...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thomas, hi,

i met you at Park Hills RR in 06, sat with you and Uncle Ron to watch the final MX tests.
You will beat this and be the first one to the checkered flag !!!

get well soon,

regards,

Mike Gallagher, NJ.

Best of wishes Big Guy! We have got to bounce around those Arkansas rocks again.

Dennis Jones

I spoke with Thomas today and he wanted to thank all his POG Friends for their thoughts and Prayers.  The next several days will be very difficult in the waiting and anticipation of the results and surgery.

Another update from Thomas' Wife.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2010 1:30 PM, EST

From Clinta - I spoke with someone at the surgeon's office Friday afternoon and learned that Monday afternoon, we should know more about the tumor and the type of surgical procedure the doctor will perform.  Thomas is experiencing a high level of cabin fever and feeling more anxiety because of it.  Unfortunately, the numbness has not gotten any better, potentially even a little worse.  At this point though, there's nothing that can be done except to continue with the steroids and hope that they are reducing the swelling in his head.  He is enjoying the comments that his friends are leaving on the Guestbook and particularly enjoys when people reflect on experiences that they shared.  It puts a smile on his face and gives him positive memories to focus on.  Thank you so much for your concern and prayers and for the interaction with this site.

Ron Carbaugh

I just found out about this and Thomas, you are in my Prayers. Let us know if there is anything we can do to help.

Donny Smith
Paragould, AR

I spoke with Thomas about 1/2 hour ago. Here's an update from the CaringBridge site that Clinta posted.

Praise God!  We got the best news we could possibly have gotten just now!  We heard from the surgeon's assistant, (have not talked directly with the surgeon yet), and her message was that the surgeon said that the tumor was one mass and that he felt he could get it all with surgery.  She said that the surgery should be about 3 hours and that he should be able to come home in a couple of days.  We are so emotional now and so relieved.  We know that Thomas will still have a long road for healing but it is so awesome to know that the tumor has not fragmented throughout the nerve center.  Once the surgeon has removed the tumor, he will have it biopsied to determine whether it is benign or malignant.  But, in the meantime, we are so grateful for this wonderful news!  Thank you all for the abundance of prayer, we will never be able to tell you how much it means to us!

I have to run to work myself, but TC is at home and sounded very relieved about the outcome of the MRI.
Next round of prayers, and we'll be ready to ride again.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Robert has given us the Great News.  Wednesday is the big Day for Surgery.  Thanks to everyone for their thoughts and Prayers.

Ron Carbaugh

That is great news... no time to back off on the prayers though... This kind of thing can take a very long time to recover.. most of which is after all the wounds heal... I am more confindent than before for a complete recovery.. Thomas one day we need to ride together...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Well it is almost the main.  I wonder if I smelled too much Blendzall back in the 70's. Of course, I could make myself crazy trying to figure out the why, but let me tell you the how.  How I'm able to go into surgery tomorrow with the knowledge that God and his abundance of angels will be by my side.....It is through God's merciful love for even people like me and because of all my incredibly wonderful friends like you!  I can't possibly put into words the enormous outpouring of love, prayers, and well-wishes that I've gotten from friends all over the country.  To have the support and concern from people that are so dear to me, as well as people I know only by name or through other people has been an experience that I have never had before and I have no comfort level with being able to adequately thank everyone for it.  

I know that I have a long road ahead of me in the healing process, but I couldn't leave my home tomorrow at 6AM without posting a personal note to let everyone know how much I appreciate them and I'm so blessed to have them in my life.  

Ron Carbaugh and Bobby Manuncy have been so kind to keep everyone informed of my prognosis and I feel sure that they will continue.  Please pray that God gives my surgeon the wisdom to make smart choices and decisions in the operating room tomorrow, that we get a report of benign and that my recovery be effective.  Thanks Poggers everywhere!



Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

Best of luck and prayers are with you.

Lew Mayer

Keep the faith old Penton brother of mine

Rod Whitman
Omaha, Nebraska
1972 Six Day (Rider)
1972 Six Day (Project)

Thomas, I will be praying that God will guide the surgeons hands as well as give him the clearity to know just how and where to cut... I love you brother...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thanks Thomas for updating everyone.  You will be in my Prayers and thanks for the call this evening.

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas is in Surgery right now and here is an update from his Wife.

I'm writing this from the neurological surgical waiting room.  Thomas had another MRI this morning, fortunately it lasted only 10 minutes.  The surgeon came by the surgical holding area and told us that he would be sending out a frozen piece of the tumor to confirm whether it's a primary or secondary tumor.  We are very hopeful of it being primary.  We joked with the surgeon that he may find rocks in Thomas's head when he opens him up from an incident years ago.  Thomas was riding a skateboard behind a car traveling at 25 miles per hour.  He fell hard and his head got the brunt of the fall with rocks and pebbles embedded in cuts.  (This is only one of many daredevil types activities that Thomas has done!)  I told Thomas that I felt the prayers that were being said for him, almost like a blanket or spirit surrounding me.  Thank you!  Thomas was very emotional when they came to take him back.  He told me to tell the kids how much he loved them, which naturally was upsetting to me.  Hannah and Trey will be coming up to the hospital shortly.  I told them to go on to class today so that we can try and maintain as much normalcy as possible.  They have already called me once to tell me that Thomas is underway in surgery and they will update me again in another hour or so.  I am set up at a desk in the waiting room with my laptop so I will update this again as soon as I get additional information.  


Ron Carbaugh

Quotequote:Originally posted by tmc3c
[Ron Carbaugh and Bobby Manucy (fixed ;)) have been so kind to keep everyone informed....

Ron beat me to it. I also called TC's cel phone thinking Clinta would have it, but she may not be able to answer in the waiting room. Will update when we hear something.


Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Bob,
  Send me a email when you have time.  I do not have your email address in my Library.  Thanks.

[email protected]

Ron Carbaugh

Tom and family
Our prayers and concerns are with you and your family.
May God Bless and care for you in this time of need.

Here is the Good News from the Hospital....thanks everyone for your continued thoughts and Prayers.

Thomas is out of surgery.  The surgeon came by a little while ago to tell us that the surgery went well.  He feels that he got most of the tumor but since the tumor was resting against the brain, he didn't want to risk doing anything that could cause physical problems by cutting near the brain.  He will have an MRI tomorrow which will show if there is any tumor left in his head.  He said that that was very common and that it's very difficult to remove the part of the tumor adjacent to the brain.  They did the freezer biopsy test and it is confirmed that the tumor is primary and strictly a brain tumor only.  He said the tumor was approximately the size of a golf ball.  Unfortunately, we won't have any news on whether it's benign or malignant for a couple of weeks.  I will talk with the surgeon again about that.  Thomas is being moved to ICU where he will stay tonight.  If all goes well, and I'm confident that it will, he will be moved to a regular room tomorrow.  I asked the surgeon when he could go home and he said once he's up and about, he's free to go home so I don't know the timetable on that yet.  Thank you to everyone for your continued prayers.  I was able to be with Michael Weisner, Ken and Anne Norton while waiting for the doctor so it was nice to have conversation with someone to help pass the time.  Please pray for Thomas's recovery and benign report and thank you again for your friendship and support.    



Ron Carbaugh

I just checked the site, and Big Brother Ron is first to the turn again..

Great news so far. He'll be back on two wheels before we know it.
More prayers. God speed TC.



Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Great news so far!-:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D[8D][8D][8D][8D][8D][8D][8D][8D][8D][8D]

ric emmal

A new update from Clinta:

From Clinta - We visited with Thomas for a few minutes in ICU and he was coherent, making jokes and probably harassing the nurses if I had to guess!  They had just given him some loritab before we came in so he was fighting falling asleep.  I told him to sleep and we would be back in a couple of hours.  Amazingly enough, the area on his head where the surgery was done is not disturbing.  I had warned my daughter on the way into the room to be prepared for the worse, (she passes out at the sight of hydrogen peroxide!) and it was nothing.  His head's not even wrapped.  They didn't shave him, so all the staples and super glue are camouflaged.  I was worried about having to change bandages over the surgical area because I, too have a weak stomach. I figured I would just close my eyes when I wrapped his head and hope he wouldn't look like a wizard!

So, bottom line, everything at this point is great!  The surgery went extremely well, we have eliminated any fear of there being cancer in other parts of his body and now we just have to get clearance that the tumor is benign.  They sent the tumor to Duke to get all kinds of reports back but again, we may have to wait 2 weeks to get the results.

We will stay with him until they kick us out tonight by 9.  I am so relieved at how my Thomas is fine and happy and upbeat!  Thank you everyone for all the prayers.  Continue to pray for a benign report and a speedy recovery.  He will be moved to a regular room together if all goes well tonight and I'm hopeful that he will be able to go home on Friday if he's medically able.

It keeps getting better.
Now if he'll leave the nurses alone.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Thanks for keeping us up to date. Thomas keep up the good work,you are going to be just fine!
           Paul(socal)

Thanks Bobby and Paul and everyone else that has been there for Thomas and his Family.

Ron Carbaugh

Clinta,

   That is absolutely wonderful news.

    Tell Thomas to pinch a nurse for me :D
Just kidding of course[:I]

Please tell your daughter that her Dad is not only a great guy but a tough one also.

Paul

That is wonderful news. I can't wait to hear more good news..

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thurs morn update:

Thursday, February 25, 2010 9:50 AM, EST

From Clinta - Hannah, a friend of hers, Kelsey, Trey and I visited with Thomas until 7pm last night, then they ran us out of the room.  Thomas said that his head started hurting last night so they gave him 2 loritabs which put him out and he slept well last night, thankfully!  He did manage to watch American Idol so he's kept up to date with the contenders!  When I got here this morning, he was finishing up breakfast and was in good spirits generally.  He is very concerned that he may have to stay in the hospital a little longer than originally planned due to the numbness issue.  His numbness since surgery has actually gotten worse.  He's unable to move his left hand, arm or leg at all.  The surgeon said that was to be expected due to all the activity inside his head during the surgery and he still has a great deal of swelling.  But, the nurse feels that they will most likely want him to go through some physical therapy before leaving.  If he had his way, we'd be in the car driving home right now!  He's still in ICU looking forward to getting a private room where it should be a little quieter.  The surgeon has not come in today so I don't have any updates from him yet.  The posts from his friends mean so much to him and have kept his spirits high, thank you all so much for your time and commitment to stay in touch!  I will update once we talk with the surgeon.  



Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Thank God, all the prayers, positive attitudes, and friends at your bedside.  Speedy recovery, my friend!

Mick

Clinta,
Thomas must be doing really well, keeping that golf ball hidden so
long,   Of course if it is not a Prov-1 then some one else can have it.  I know Thomas prefers the best.  God bless to all of you.
Doug

Thomas,
It was wonderful to read the positive reports. My prayers and best wishes for a rapid recovery !!
Dave McCullough

Got to head off to work again, but here's an update:

From Clinta - We have had a good day today.  Thomas had some wonderful visits from Thomas Riddle, Robert Cross, Ken Norton, Linda Page and Ken Strickland.  Each of these visitors were  wonderfully genuine and so uplifting to Thomas.  Linda, he thoroughly enjoyed the card that you left with more signatures then I've ever seen on a card!  He misses all his friends at Cryovac and is looking to get back there as soon as he can!  The gift was lovely also!  Thomas and Ken, we are thankful for your prayers and appreciate your continued requests for Thomas's recovery and a clear report on the tumor!  Ken Norton, Thomas believes you are his angel and that you have wings of gold!  He considers you one of his brothers and values your friendship more than he can say.  Robert, it was so engaging to hear your wonderful stories of travel and adventure.  In olden days, I'm sure you would have been a pirate!  Since so many people have asked, I wanted to share that Thomas is at Greenville Memorial Hospital and he's in Room 2301.  He was moved this afternoon and it's so nice to have a lot more privacy.  The surgeon is setting Thomas up to work with a physical therapist starting tomorrow so that hopefully he will be able to walk soon and get usage of his left hand again.  It appears that Thomas won't be able to go home tomorrow as we hoped, but we are hoping for Saturday if all goes well tomorrow with the Physical Therapist.  I will post a new update in the morning.   Thanks friends for the wonderful posts and all the support that we have received.  You are precious to us and we love you all!



Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

that is good news, it looks like everything is on track, It is never as fast as we want it but He is in good hands Thomas, I mean it I want to go riding with you one day..tall order I know since I am on the PNW but one day that would be great... We continue to pray for complete healing... Nothing is to Hard for the Lord...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Please Keep Your Prayers coming for Thomas....

We got some news today about Thomas that has knocked the wind out of all of us.  As a disclaimer, this report is from the pathology department from Greenville Hospital and not from the biopsy that was sent to Duke.  There is always a possibility that there will be some differences in the report from Duke but this gives us at least a peek at what to expect.
 
Thomas's tumor was a high grade glioma or astrocytoma which means that he has fast-growing malignant brain cancer.  There are 4 stages and this report shows that he is in Stage 4.  We are praying that the report from Duke comes back as something more positive or not so stark.  Due to his paralysis, Thomas will be moved to Roger C Peace Rehabilitation Center next week which is a great facility and the only one of it's kind in South Carolina.  They work exclusively with brain trauma, spinal injury and stroke patients and have been able to do miracles.  The expectation is that Thomas will start some type of radiation next week but to say that I'm writing this in complete shock would be an understatement.  
 
I can't write anymore for now.  I'm meeting with the admissions team for Roger C Peace to get Thomas set up to be moved there next Monday or Tuesday.  Please continue to pray for healing for Thomas.  The surgeon told us that there is no "cure" for this type cancer.  He will always have it, the fight is to keep the cancer from growing so that's why he will have radiation and most likely chemo also.  
 
Thank you for your prayers!


Ron Carbaugh

Our thoughts and Prayers are with you Thomas. Keep positive and keep on track. We're all here for you and the family.

Here is another update.  Thanks again for everyones support.

From Clinta - I'm sitting here in Thomas's hospital room while he sleeps.  I just realized that Thomas's birthday is coming up on Wednesday, March 3.  It would be so terrific if I could bring him lots of  birthday cards from his friends and family on his special day, so if it's something you would like to do, please mail it to 27 Summer Valley Court, Greenville, SC 29651.  I know that it will help make what is probably going to be a not-so-great birthday so much better!  Thanks!

Ron Carbaugh

Update.

From Clinta - I'm not sure where my head was when I did the post last night regarding sending Thomas a card for his birthday.  I clearly know my address but for some reason, posted the wrong city.  I still wouldn't have caught the mistake if Thomas's mom, (mine too!) hadn't called to tell me so.  But, if you've already mailed a card, don't worry, we will still get it because they go by the zip code which was correct.  Here is the correct address:  27 Summer Valley Court, Greer, SC 29651, not Greenville.  

Thomas had a rough night, was up on and off throughout the night.  Hannah, our daughter stayed with him and she herself probably only got an hour of rest.  She left when I got here to go to work so I know she will be a tired girl tonight!  Trey is at home doing oil changes for our cars, moving furniture around and just helping his Mom out with home chores.  In case, I haven't told you yet, Thomas and I have been blessed with incredible children.  Hannah and Trey are so kind and compassionate and love their father and Father so much!  They have been an incredible pillar for their Dad and Team Carmichael will battle on!  

To help with some of the challenges that Thomas is going through, he has started taking some anxiety medicine to help with coping.  When you are used to going at a wide-open pace, to be immobilized in a hospital bed is maddening.  As a matter-of-fact, I would equate it to putting a tiger in a cage.  

He had a physical therapy session this morning which has worn him out.  He is sleeping as I write this.  He spoke with his Mom and Dad this morning and he cried when they hung up.  He loves him Mom, Dad and brother very much and believe it or not, but he is constantly saying how sorry he is for putting us through this.  If it wasn't for his weakened condition, I would slap him!!

We are going to keep a low profile this weekend, regroup emotionally and prepare for battle.  As we move forward, I'm going to request very specific prayers from you.  As a prayer warrior, I believe that God wants us to be very specific with our needs as opposed to asking for global requests.  So, I'm going to ask that as you pray for Thomas to please ask God for 2 things;  that Thomas be able to get back the use of his left arm and leg so that he can walk again and be able to feed himself and that he respond appropriately to the radiation.  As I shared with you yesterday, without God's intervention, this type cancer is not one that can be cured or will ever go away completely, so our best hope, (besides God) is that the radiation stop any further growth and that the cancer be kept stagnant.  

It's hard for me to not become emotional as I say this, but, Thomas, Hannah, Trey and I are so blessed to have had the outpouring of love, prayers and concern from each and all of you.  This is so critical to Thomas's recovery plan and I can't stress enough how uplifting and rewarding it is when you post a comment because Thomas will ask me throughout the day, "has anyone posted a comment?" and even if it's only for seconds, he stops thinking about the monster in his brain, and focuses on the encouraging words that you write.  

As always, thank you!

Ron Carbaugh

Clinta, Thomas and Family.

In the local paper tonight there is a story titled " Prescription for Survival, Hope and Faith." It is a story that follows a number of folks who are in situations very similar to Thomas and how they coped with, and battled their opponent. A number of weapons against their opponents were mentioned, including a good support system, faith, and a good attitude.

Two pieces of advice that they offered were to ask lots of questions and to get second opinions. Each of these folks have by far exceeded all expectations given by the "experts".

From what you have posted you are already well equipped.

Hope this helps, and please remember that your POG family is right their with you.

Paul

Thanks John and I will tell Thomas.  He does want to be able to walk and feed himself.  Thanks for your Prayers.

Ron Carbaugh

I am sure this is quite a shock but not to the Lord, So we keep praying....

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

I did get a chance to talk to Thomas and Clinta on Saturday in between my honey-do's. His tone was one of disapointment that this is happening, but also one of "let's get this going and get it over with". Hopefully the move to the Rehab center will be quick, and he can start to get his movement and feeling back.

He graciously thanks all of you for your prayers and support in this difficult time, and says getting through it will be a chore. He also said getting through it will let him help others, and if that's what the Lord's will is, he's ready for the next checkpoint.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

I talked with Thomas last night and like Bobby says he is ready for Rehab and wants to get better.  He is tough cookie.....and thanks for everyones Prayers.  Here is the latest.

From Clinta - We have heard already today that as soon as a bed becomes available, Thomas will be moved to Roger C Peace center!  We are very excited about Thomas being able to start therapy to get him on the road to walking again!  

We had an evening visit from Roger Loomis last night and it was wonderful to see him and get caught up.  Roger has had some health issues himself over the last year, but he is doing well and was very hopeful for Thomas.  

Thomas's parents are coming to visit tomorrow to be with him while I'm working in Columbia so I know he will enjoy spending time with him.  We don't know what his availability is going to be at Roger C Peace, we've only heard that it's very regimented and disciplined.  I hope to get the schedule so I can let everyone know when visitation is allowed.  

I will update again once he's moved and give you specific information about his room assignment and the center's location.  I know that it's also on the Greenville Hospital campus, I'm just not sure where to access the entrance.

Thanks everyone for your continued prayers.

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas has moved so here is an update.  His Birthday is Wednesday.

From Clinta - First off, Thomas is not in Room 3903 but 3917, I guess they decided to switch rooms at the last minute.  They have brought us a wheel chair for him and he's already got his schedule for tomorrow up on the board.  He will start at 9AM and go through 3:00 with a break for lunch.  All kinds of therapy from physical, occupational, speech, neurological, pyschological and I've left 2 more off because I can't remember what they were, I'm thinking I might need some memory therapy!!  He's in a bad mood, fussing at me, which in his defense, I can be really irritating at times, it's a wife/woman thing!  I think this day has been trying to him, he goes between being very optimistic and really down which I understand is totally normal under these circumstances!  Please pray that he will have successful therapy sessions and that they are able to help him with being able to do everyday things like feeding himself, walking, bathing, etc.  We have not heard from an oncologist yet but they don't normally start radiation until 2 weeks after surgery to give the wound time to heal.  We found out over the weekend, that they are approximating that they had to leave about 20% of the tumor because it has already infiltrated into his brain.  But, hopefully with radiation, we stop any further growth.  Thanks to all of you for your faithfulness to stay involved with this website, other than our visitors, hearing the posts is the highlight of his day!  Love and appreciate you!

Ron Carbaugh

Today Thomas starts his road to recovery!

rom Clinta - Today is going to be a big day for Thomas, mostly exhausting I'm sure, but a day that I'm praying will give him hope and keep him focused on the "plan!"  His room at Roger C Peace is so much larger than the room he had at Greenville Memorial which is very nice and the staff have been incredibly attentive to his needs.  The food has been great but with the high dosage of steroids that he's getting, they could probably serve him cardboard and he wouldn't even need to salt it!  Tomorrow is his birthday so I'm putting together balloons, colorful banners and streamers to decorate his room with while he's out at therapy.  He will tell you that I did it for the kids, but I know that deep down, (it's a guy thing!), he will notice and appreciate it!  He is basically going to be in therapy all day with the exception of a lunch break for about an hour or so each day.  So, for those of you wanting to visit, the only sure time to see him is after 4 otherwise, he will be out of his room with the multiple types of therapy!  Thanks again to everyone for your continued support.  Please pray today that Thomas is focused on the therapy and commited to the process.  This is so important to his mindset and we are extremely hopeful that Thomas will be able to walk again!

Ron Carbaugh

Just in case Ron or Bobby has not already mentioned it, Thomas' birthday is tomorrow.

Those wishing to send him cards, flowers, balloons, etc. and well wishes can find him at:

Thomas Carmichael
Room 3903
Roger C. Peace Hospital--Rehabilitation
29 N. Academy Street
Greenville, SC 29601

(//)http://picasaweb.google.com/BlueRidgePathfinder/AlSIT400C#5444044699145610770

Also, just in case it has not already been posted, you can sign up for updates on Thomas condition on the Caring Bridge Site his wife Clinta has set up at:  

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/thomascarmichael

Constant prayers go forth for healing and comfort for our friend Thomas and his family Clinta, Hannah, and Trey.

Sincerely,

Al Roof

There is a correction to Al Roof's post as to the address for Thomas.  Please see below.  Thanks to everyone for your Prayers and cards.

Thomas Carmichael
Room 3917
Roger C Peace Rehabilitation Center
701 Grove Road
Greenville, SC 29605

Thanks for your help!

Ron Carbaugh

Day #1 in Therapy.  I am amazed at Thomas' will to fight as you lose so much strength in just a few days in the hospital.  Here is some very positive news from his Bride.

I have some very exciting news to report today!  I would shout it from the rooftops but it's snowing up a storm here!  Today was Thomas's first day of therapy and it went GREAT!!  He went through all kinds of different therapies but I want to focus on the physical therapy.  They placed him between a set of parallel bars and while holding on to both bars, he was able to walk down the entire length.  I'm not saying it was graceful but it was beautiful!!  It brings tears to my eyes!  I don't think that Thomas has been this motivated since this whole process started and I'm so thankful to God for being right beside him today, holding his hand and helping him to complete his first walking task.  He's not ready to run marathons or even walk by himself yet, but we needed this and it's completely changed his demeanor!  

Speaking of God-sent, we had 2 visitors yesterday that were His messengers!  First a visit from Randy, Olivia's grandfather who prior to his visit yesterday we had never met.   Again, through the unbelievable network of friends that Hannah has, this gentleman thinks the world of our daughter and wanted to come pray with us just because Thomas is her father!!  She's a missionary and doesn't even realize it!  And then a little later, one of the dearest people on this earth, my precious friend, Mary Patskoski came to visit.  She is an incredible messenger of God and so faithful to Him and His word!  She was very uplifting to Thomas, sharing a parable from the bible about the unjust judge and other encouraging stories of people in situations just like Thomas!  We laughed and cried!  She is such as awesome person and our life is more blessed because she's in it!

As I type this, Thomas has a friend from work visiting, Ric Rudler who himself, spent some time right here in this facility recently when he was in a very serious, life-threatening dirt bike accident.  He's giving us all the scoop like where the sherbet is kept, very important information to know!  They are watching a motorcycle show now so I don't talk the language, that's why I'm typing!  

Tomorrow is another opportunity with the therapy for Thomas as well as his birthday so I'm very excited about Wednesday!  As always, thanks so much for the incredibly sweet and kind posts!  We are amazed at the response and can't wait to see who will write next!  Thank you for the prayers, God is listening and as Mary said, we are bombarding God with the name of Thomas Carmichael!



Ron Carbaugh

That is great news... I wish I could come visit, but it is too far.. even by plane it would be 6 or 7 hours...So I will just keep praying...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thomas' Birthday is today.  I am flying over to South Carolina today to visit with Thomas and his Family.  Due to my connections I will not be able to see Thomas till tomorrow.  Thanks for the Prayers and I will report back on how things are going with Thomas.

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas,If you see this i hope you have the best Birthday possible considering your circumstances.We met at the ISDTRR in Missouri a few years back and you struck me as being a great guy and a fellow Penton Nut!Hang in there and know that you have a great bunch of people praying and pulling for your recovery.Take Care,
                                                                Ric

ric emmal

Thomas had a great birthday.  Bobby rode over on one of his bikes from Charleston and it was cold last evening.  I arrived too late for the Party, but I will be at the hospital today.  Thanks for all your continued Prayers.

From Clinta - Well, I'm thinking that we may have set the bar pretty high on how to throw a birthday party at the Roger C Peace center yesterday!  What a marvelous celebration that we had and most especially for the gift of life that God has given each of us!  When Thomas got back to his room from PT, he found all kinds of colorful, helium-filled balloons and streamers.  We had a spread on his desk that may have caused a shortage of sugar in America!  The hospital gave Thomas 2 cakes, a cream cake and a carrot cake.  I had brought a yellow sheet cake with party supplies.  The most popular items though were gifts from very special friends.  Barbara and Dwayne sent a beautiful cookie bouquet filled with iced and regular cookies.   An old, (again not age) friend of Thomas's and now mine, Cindy Yarborough from Florida sent a yummy fruit bouquet with chocolate-dipped strawberries, pineapple and gourmet delectable fruits.  When staff would come in the room, I was trying to get them to take a piece of cake, (remember 3 cakes!!) and everybody wanted the cookies or the fruit, although I will have to confess that Hannah and Thomas ate most of the fruit.  I'm thinking the word got out in the hospital and strangely, staff from other floors started "checking" on us, I think they were coming for the cookies!!

We had 2 wonderful visitors from Cryovac yesterday, very dear friends of Thomas's, Todd Patterson and Dale Allison.  These guys are so precious and helped to make Thomas's birthday special.  Todd, thank you for your God-felt prayer, Thomas commented later, that your prayer gave him a sense of peace!

Some birthday parties have clowns or magicians, our party had Q, James Bond's associate!  He arrived by night, driving through the cold on his big, sleek motorcycle.  He was garbed with the most advanced technological equipment, heater hooked up in his jacket, special made earplugs so that he can communicate with command central and all the gadgets that any traveler would want to have with them for a road-trip!  I joke because I can't possibly convey the magnitude of the visit from Bobby Manuncy from Charleston, a man that Thomas calls brother!  Bobby had to be at work last night at midnight, left Charleston at 3pm just so that he could spend time with Thomas on his birthday.  He called me and said that he had not gotten Thomas's card in the mail to him so he was coming in person to deliver it and to be with him.  I tried to talk him out of it for the very obvious reasons but he wouldn't hear of it!  How do you thank someone for a gesture so incredible?  His friendship with Thomas is a blessing and he has always been there for him through the good, the bad and the ugly!  

You may notice that I use some words over and over, like wonderful, dear, special and a few others.  It's because, well I have a limited word vocabulary but more specifically because we are surrounded by people that have shown us an unlimited amount of compassion, love and friendship beyond mere mortal words.  How will we ever be able to let you know how much we appreciate the support and prayers that we feel daily?  In a very small measure that doesn't represent the emotion, thank you for all that you do for us, with the greatest gift being prayer!


Ron Carbaugh

I visited with Thomas at his Noon Break from therapy and he looking good.  Thomas told me to thank everyone for the cards and flowers and that most of all he appreciates the Prayer.  I will visit him later today.

Ron Carbaugh

What a wonderful report, I have always said, Poggers are the cream of the crop,

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Ron,
I should have checked the board before my run up to Greenville, I would liked to have seen you also. My visit was a spur of the moment choice, as I had procrastinated in sending the card. I had gotten off work at 0600 Wed morning, and was scheduled to go back in at 1830. At 1415 my pager went off and I was rescheduled for 0030. So is the life of a container crane operator, I have to maximize my time whenever it happens. So I told the wife I would make the trip to Greenville and be back in time for work.

I called Clinta to see if Thomas would be up to visitors, but had to leave a message. I was already 30-40 miles out when she returned my call, so I told her I had already committed and would see them in a couple of hours.(The Autocom lets me hook up to ipod, gps, phone, and radar. ;)) Little did I realize there was a detour on part of the trip, adding about 45 min and putting me in Greenville's 5 o'clock traffic. [B)]
When I did arrive, I met Clinta and Trey in the hall going up, and then found his buddies Todd and Dale from work in the room. We had some cake, told some stories about Thomas getting them hooked on the game of golf. He's also trying to get Dale, who mountain bikes, to get a dirt bike and join him in the woods. Thomas was calling me James Bond, with all the gadgets on the bike, but we settled on "Q, the gadget man". I'm the gadget man to my wife, so it fit. His daughter Hannah came in with her dog and was setting up the ipod for her Dad, so he'd have some motivational music. I just hope he doesn't start break dancing.

Being that I had to get back to the coast for work, and Todd and Dale had left, I bode them farewell, plugged in the heated jacket liner and gloves, and headed home. 450 miles roundtrip in 34-42 degree weather for a friend didn't bother me at all. But I do get to take a nap at work after my 2.5hr shift on the crane.:)

All in all, Thomas looks no worse for wear, and has the spirit to return to normal. One of the last times in the woods, he was quite impressive, even though he says he's an "optically and weight challenged rider." I'm sure he'll be right back in front of me.[B)] (It was his home turf of course.)

So Godspeed my Brother, do your p/t, and listen to Clinta. I'll keep in touch, and make another trip up there soon. But I'll map out another route since the I385 work looks to last a while.

Take care,
Bobby

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Another update and this is long, but remember that we are helping a Friend and I especially want to thank Bobby Manucy and Greg Holder for bring such joy to Thomas.  Nothing like talking to old Racers to bring the best out in Thomas.  Thomas was into Flat Tracking last night and for those of you new to POG Thomas raced a lot of Flat Track and won on a Penton.  Well here is the latest from his Wonderful Wife Clinta.

From Clinta - I apologize for not doing a post when I got home last night, late, but I was just too tired!  I could have written something, but I'm afraid that it would have been incoherent.  Lots to catch you up on, but I left 2 elements out of yesterday's posting that I would like to share with you.  

First, RCP will on occasion, have Pet, (as in animal) therapy.  With all the kindness that they've shown us, I thought it only appropriate that I contribute to the pet therapy, so I offered to run home and bring back one of my 4 cats or 3 dogs.  Otis, our 125 pound Cujo-looking dog might have been a bit much for the staff but if he doesn't eat you, then he will probably be your friend!  Strange, but they said no, that wasn't necessary.  Hannah, natuarally took this as an opportunity to bring in our grand-puppy Tucker, (who is an adorable debonair pound puppy, predominantly terrier), and so Tucker was also there for the birthday party.  I think there's a possibility that he might have had one or two pieces of cake more than a puppy should because later, Hannah had to deal with the repercussions of sugar and icing overload.  

Secondly, my request for people to remember Thomas's birthday through cards was met and more!  You've heard the phrase, raining cats and dogs, Thomas was raining cards, all kinds of cards!  Birthday cards, Get Well cards, Thinking of you cards, and get your oil changed cards!  (We didn't hang the oil change cards!)  So, he is facing a wall of cards and how awesome it is for him to wake each day and see the well-wishes right in front of him!  So thank you everyone for your thoughtfulness, it was wonderful!  We saved them up and Hannah opened them one by one to read them to him, Trey and I were the hangers.  I was a little OCD about making sure that they were level and in a particular order, but my children drew the line with getting me a ruler!  

Yesterday was another great therapy day!  Thomas has been progressing with his left leg and with the help of his physical therapist was able to walk with a cane.  At this point, his ankle is very weak so they don't let him walk unassisted, but will lift the ankle for him and place it back down because they are worried that he will twist or break it if he does it himself.  They asked me to purchase a pair of cheap, no-name tennis shoes, (around our house we call them bobos!) so I went to Kmart and got him a pair.  They wanted them to have velcro strips to make it easier for him to put on and today, hopefully they are building a leg brace for him to give the ankle more support.  We haven't seen yet any improvement in the left arm but the doctors have told us that the arm would come back last because it's closest to his brain.  

He had another CAT scan which we've not gotten the results for yet but will on Monday morning unless I'm able to corral a doctor today.  After the visit from the cancer doctor, I'm not so worried about getting the results now because we are supposed to be presented with a plan on Monday morning.  Let me tell you about that visit!  Separate from the local doctors, I have been working behind the scenes, not telling Thomas, that I've been lobbying to get Duke Hospital to see Thomas.  For those of you that don't know, Duke Hospital is world-renowned for their brain tumor treatments.  People from all over come to Duke and they are literally the authority on brain tumor treatments.  It was important to me to at least try to see if it would be possible to get an audience there.  When Mary Patskoski came to visit earlier this week and talked about all the miracles and wonderful things that Duke has done, it reinforced to me, that I needed to start that campaign.  Imagine my surprise, when answering the phone arbitrarily because I normally don't answer if I don't recognize the number, and it was the doctor who treated Ted Kennedy for his brain tumor.  Obviously, Ted Kennedy passed away but this doctor I'm sure was checked out from top to bottom and must be a very good doctor.  We had a brief conversation and he directed me to what we need to do prior to coming to see him and he gave me his beeper number to contact him when we had finished the protocol that he suggested.  OK, so about an hour later, the local cancer doctor from Cancer Centers of America stops by to meet Thomas and me and to talk with us about Thomas's situation.  He's not aware that I've already contacted Duke which isn't a conflict because the Duke doctor had said for Thomas to move forward with the radiation treatments, etc, get another scan and then we will meet.  

The local cancer doctor, Dr. Mark O'Rourke explained what the tumor is, what it means, what it does, etc.  He was using the pathology report from GHS because we still don't have the pathology report back from Duke.  He said that the plan will be to use a 3 prong approach for Thomas's treatment.  All of these simultaneously so that's going to be a challenge for Thomas but the doctor is thinking that with Thomas's age and superior health prior to this, he can do it.  They will be doing radiation, chemo, (by pill) and a third pill which helps with starving the cancer cells and keep them from growing.  He went on to say, that often they will send patients up to Duke after treatment but with Thomas, he is considering sending Thomas first and letting Duke decide the best treatment, send him back home to Greenville and let the cancer center here provide the treatment plan.  Dr. O'Rourke did his residencency at Duke so he's very familiar and supportive of their brain tumor program.  So, I had to confess at that point that I'd already been in touch with Duke and it was fine, no problem.  I discussed with both the doctor from Duke and the doctor locally options for clinical trials, (thanks Skauska) and there's a real possibility that we can get him in some type of trial.  I will discuss that more if we are able to go in that direction.  I am meeting Dr. O'Rourke at 6:30am Monday morning to discuss next steps.  He needed some time to gather all the info to finalize the plans.  

Thomas will have another big day of therapy today and he has therapy on Saturday's too until 1:30 and then's he free to enjoy his weekend.  Thomas was so blessed with wonderful visitors yesterday, it helps to make the days not so therapy intensive and gives Thomas an opportunity to laugh and visit with the outside world.   Roger Kirk, a friend from work stopped by and shared a prayer with Thomas, Mike Gasgue brought by the BEST lemon pound cake, (I told Thomas that it was coming home with me and realized that you don't take a cake from a patient in the hospital, that's just not right!), Michael Weisner, Dale Holcombe and Greg Holder.  Dale had called me on the way to the hospital to ask what he could bring to us for dinner.  I was actually sitting with my daughter in the hospital cafeteria while she was eating at the time, I wasn't hungry so I told him to just bring something for Thomas.  He gave me several suggestions and we went with barb-b-q sandwiches.  All I can say is, thankfully my hand wasn't anywhere near Thomas's mouth as he ate them, because he eats like a starving dog.  The food at the hospital has been good, but the quantity is small, particularly for someone on heavy doses of steroids.  Dale, thanks for the sandwiches, as I said, it's the best food he's had in over 2 weeks.   (I cooked for part of that 2 weeks so I'm admitting that I'm no great shakes in the kitchen!)  Greg Holder is another dirt bike enthuasist and Thomas enjoyed getting seeing and getting caught up with him.  And finally, I have a mystery guest to share with you, but I will just say for now, that he has traveled over 1300 miles to see Thomas and is visiting for 2 days.  Today is his 2nd day in town and I have much to say about him, so I'm saving him for my next post!

Thank you everyone for your love and friendship!  Have a wonderful day!


Ron Carbaugh

Thanks Clinta for the update, I read the Letter to my wife and we laughed and thourghly enjoyed every bit of it... I normally do not read that much of the posts but she really wanted to hear and she is rejoicing too, at the progress that Thomas is making, As always we continue to pray.. We are believing for the best. If we could, We would give all of you a big hug... thanks for being so open and allowing us to share in your journey of faith. I wish I could have gone to your birthday party... Maybe some day I can....

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

I have left South Carolina and on my way back to Texas.  Thomas is Blessed to have a Great Family and Thomas is giving rehab all he has and a little more.  It is sometimes hard to describe to people that haven't been through a difficult medical situation how hard rehab is...but it is hard and it takes a tough person to give it a 100%.  Here is the latest from Thomas' Wife and as far as me making the trip...it was the right thing to do for a Friend and Brother.

From Clinta - I know that many of you are thinking or worrying about the delay in getting an updated post.  I was up until 4AM this morning and around 3AM I considered doing it but decided that I should try to get some sleep instead.  I know that it can be concerning when you are used to getting new information twice a day and to not hear anything for 30 hours could raise questions so I apologize if I have alarmed anyone.  Several people have mentioned that they worried because they've gotten used to reading the daily events and to not hear anything made them wonder if something was wrong.   I will be more diligent in posting something, even if it's short!

Another note I wanted to mention before catching you up....Apparently there have been visitors that have come to see Thomas that I never knew had been in.  I try to mention all of his visitors as a way of thanking them for making the time and effort to come to the hospital.  In casual conversation, something will be said by another visitor or even Thomas about so and so coming to visit and I feel bad that I did not acknowledge them in the post.  So, if this references you, please know that we are so appreciative of your visit and if I don't mention you by name, please know that it is not intentional.  

As far as updates or changes with Thomas's cancer, the radiation doctor came in on Friday and said that they are trying to get Thomas set up to participate in a clinical trial at Duke.  If they are able to work that out, then he will be making a road trip to Raleigh, probably one day next week and we will put a hold on physical therapy for now.  I'm supposed to meet with the cancer doctor on Monday to hear more about the plans going forward and as soon as I do, I will post an update.  We are supposed to meet at 6:30 AM so I will downing liquid caffeine at the crack of dawn!  

Both yesterday and today we have had some wonderful guests.  Some were new faces and some were regulars.  Thanks for Howard & Betty for stopping by.  I'm not sure I've met anyone that laughs as much as Howard, what a joyous soul he is and so uplifting to be around.  We enjoyed visiting with Randy Strickland and Thomas Riddle, thanks for the continued prayers!  Last evening, our former Sunday School teacher, Buddy Waters stopped by and I hate to even label him because he's truly so much more than that to us.  He's an inspiration and someone who constantly gives of himself to others.  He has had some big medical challenges in the last few years also and yet no matter how dire his situation has been, he has always been faithful to lead by example.  Tonight, I met Clayton Jones and his girlfriend Michelle.  Thanks Clayton for always straightening out Thomas's paperwork, I'm sure that wasn't an easy job.  I have been looking forward to meeting someone who has been incredibly faithful in writing Thomas and that is Carolyn Cross who came with her hubby Robert tonight.  Carolyn made Thomas the most awesome Get Well card, (I gave it high prominence on our card wall!) and she's just as spectacular as the words that she writes to Thomas to comfort him!  

Thomas's Mom & Dad came today to visit with him while I ran some errands and handled some personal business.  (They were on the road today over 6 hours!)  They have been very supportive and are always quick to offer to help in anyway that they can!  I could not be closer to them even if they were my own flesh & blood parents!  

In my post yesterday, I teased a "mystery guest" that I was going to tell you about in my next post.  The mystery guest was Ron Carbaugh from Kerrville, Texas.  Ron is very well known in many different circles.  He was an executive with Honda motorcycles and has been instrumental in motorcycle racing for years.  Ron has survived 2 life-threatening situations himself, one from 7 years ago when he was given one week to live and then a year ago when they found a brain tumor the size of a tennis ball. Ron has been a mentor and a shining light for Thomas.  He has been the voice of reason, the voice of optimism and a brother in every sense of the word.  To say that we were touched by his making this trip to visit with Thomas for 2 days, just to check on his welfare and to ensure that Thomas is in a good place mentally, says so much about the kind of man that he is, and we are lucky to have him in our life!  

No matter what your contribution is for Thomas, with prayer being the most important, we continue to be so thankful.  It is a wonderful feeling to know that we are surrounded by such love and we are so appreciative!  


Ron Carbaugh

Since it has been said that Thomas likes to hear from the posts, let me say again that we are thinking of you from this side of the mountains, and include you in our prayers. Stay the course.

And for Mr. Carbaugh, well done sir, well done.

Patrick Houston
Cosby, Tennessee

Ron has been a blessing to many of us... The last couple years have been really rough for us as well. and my brother Ron has been there every step of the way..
Thanks Ron, for keeping us updated. and for just being who you are... We are all blessed to call you friend and brother..

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

I don't care what they say. Ron is OK in my book.
LOL,
Dwight

Thomas.

Ron sure is great to have around.  Hope the best for you and keep fighting.  I hope to post some Penton stories from Glen Helen this weekend....keep reading the posts.

Ron has always been there somehow for me, he's an inspiriration and helps me to help others, too.

Victor Monz

Dwight,
  Funny thing is I told your Brother Greg Holder the same thing about you last week?;)  Thanks Dwight for all you have done in the ISDT/E over the years.  It is people like you who are the backbone of the Sport.

Ron Carbaugh

As those that have followed this thread know that Thomas is really giving it all he has and more in therapy and below is the latest from his Wife and what the doctors think.  I cannot stress how Great of Attitude Thomas has, but it is hard to keep hitting it hard everyday a 100% so thank for everyones thoughts and Prayers.

From Clinta - Good morning everyone!  I just spoke with the cancer doctor, Dr. O'Rourke and he has implemented the process to get Thomas up to Duke.  He said that I should receive a call from them before Friday letting me know when he is expected up there.  He has very briefly reviewed the pathology report from Duke and they have also confirmed that the tumor is in Stage 4.  I asked him what type of progress he believes we can expect for Thomas and he said that he has seen wondrous things happen with the trials at Duke.  He is extremely optimistic that with Thomas's age and health, that he will respond positively and get great results.  I feel such a sense of relief and know that Thomas will work very hard to do whatever needs to be done to have quality and quantity of life with his family!  

Prayers are being answered and we are all witnesses to it!  Continue to pray for his health and that we will be able to go to Duke very soon!  Thank you!

Ron Carbaugh

You went above and beyond with your visit Ron. I'm sure Thomas was having a fit when you walked into his room. You truly are TC's big Brother.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Hi everyone!  This is Clinta, Thomas Carmichael's wife.  I wanted to post a note for the primary reason of thanking all the POG members.  In the last 3 weeks Thomas has faced the biggest challenge of his life and throughout this time, he has received an overwhelming amount of attention through internet postings, emails, cards and calls.  For him, although it's a scary time, it's also been amazing.  It's an eye-opening experience to go through each day, acknowledging our friendships but not truly understanding their depth.  Thomas, very often will cry as I read the posts, emails or cards and to say he's touched, is to call a category 5 hurricane, a rain storm.

We can not possibly express the full magnitude of our appreciation for the support and prayers that so many of you have offered.  Our battle is not over, if anything, it's just beginning.  But, with Thomas's heart and extraordinary attitude, and most of all, God's hand on him, we have complete faith that God's will be done.  Thank you!



Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

And the latest.  Thanks everyone.

From Clinta - Hello dear friends,  Thomas and Hannah had a great day and I was wonderfully surprised when I got to the hospital room and she was still here!!  Hannah said that Thomas had a great day in therapy and the therapists worked with Hannah to teach her exercises for his left arm.  He's really tired tonight so I will probably leave soon so that he can get some extra rest.   Tomorrow the therapists will be teaching Trey how to transition Thomas in and out of a car so he will have another big day Friday.  

Earlier, Thomas had visits from Ric Rudler and Roger Loomis.  Thanks guys for stopping by!  

Continue to pray for Thomas's spirit and motivation, sometimes it really tough and it's easy to get down.  I appreciate your prayers!  


Ron Carbaugh

Good morning POGGERS.:)
Just a little bit more this morning from Team Carmichael....

From Clinta - TGIF!  I haven't heard the weather report yet but I'm hoping for warm, sunny weather this weekend.  Either way, we're going to have some fun!  Tonight, I'm taking in a steak dinner, (Thomas's favorite!), a movie rental and we're having "date" night!  There's a high likelihood that neither of us will be able to stay awake through the whole movie, (that's nothing new, that happened at the house also!), but we're going to give it a try.

If possible, I'm going to round up a Spades tournament, bring his chess and checkers set and a few other games down.  I would bring pictionary but my drawing totally frustrates him.  Whenever we play, I tell him that he must have a hard time with envisioning, he tells me I can't draw!  (Truth be told, he's right!)

Often, when we were first dating we would have movie marathons.  We would rent 5 or 6 movies, and literally stay up through the night watching all of them until the last one was seen.   I tease Thomas because he's the absolute worst movie picker, he will begrudgingly agree but if the cover on the box had any type of action, he would choose it.  Of course, once watching we would discover how awful the movie was and so he understands that keeping up with Hollywood successes and blockbusters is not really his thing.  

I don't have any new news to report but I'm hopeful of hearing from Duke today!  I'm becoming more accepting that it's not "my timetable" but others, most assuredly God's so when I prayed last night, I asked God to help me through this process.  I'm a person of action and in this scenario, I do have some influence, but not much so I'm trying to be more conciliatory.    

Thanks to all of the readers of this post for being by our side, for listening and for your prayers and wonderful posts!  Have a great weekend!

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

It looks like Thomas will be discharged from the hospital next week to make the trip to Duke.  Here is the latest and thanks for all you Prayers and cards.  It all helps.

From Clinta - It's been an interesting day.  We've had high and lows but we're thrilled it's the weekend!  Thomas is finishing up his steak dinner as I write this!  I would imagine that he would consider that one of the highlights of the day.  I laughed out loud when the nurse told me that earlier today when Thomas was told that they were going to have to put in another IV and dose him with a high-level antibiotic, his first response was, "this isn't going to interfere with me eating steak for dinner, is it?"  

First thing this morning, instead of sending him to Physical therapy, the attendants came and took him to get a CAT scan and shortly after that, he was told that he would have to be hooked back up to an IV for the antibiotic that I mentioned above.  When Thomas called to tell me this, I had the rehab doctor paged and she called me back to tell me that she was worried about the drainage from his head and it had taken on a different look which was concerning.  She put in an emergency call to his surgeon and demanded that he come check Thomas out.  He did come this afternoon and told me that Thomas will go back to surgery tomorrow where they will open back up the suture, clean up the area and restaple him.  I don't know if reopening the wound will affect his clinical trial, but it's not optional.  The CAT scan showed no abscess but there's concern about infection.  

I got a confirmation call that Thomas is officially registered for an appointment with Duke for next Wednesday.  He will meet with the doctor for one hour at 11, we will leave, stay in a hotel room, and then go back again at 9:30 on Thursday for further counseling.  This is the answer to so many prayers and we are very excited to find out about the next part of this journey.  Thomas is being discharged from Roger C Peace on Monday so he will have a busy week.  We won't be doing physical therapy next week but we do have a list of exercises that Thomas will have to do at home.  

It's going to be an early evening, we're both exhausted!  For those wanting to visit this weekend, Thomas is scheduled for PT at 9 and then he will be taken to surgery sometime around 11 or 12 tomorrow.   After surgery, he will go to recovery, so I'm thinking that he probably won't be back to the room until 3ish.  He is scheduled for PT again on Sunday at 1:00.  Thomas's nurse just left and told us not to be surprised if they come early for him or late to take him to surgery.  He had a patient today that was scheduled to go at 11 and they showed up at 8:30 to take her.  So, the time is not set in stone as far as his surgery schedule.

Todd Patterson just left after visiting with us for awhile.  Thomas is very lucky to have such a great friend.  He brought a book for Thomas to read to help him through this challenging trial.  Todd has been so incredibly supportive and faithful to checking on Thomas and posting.  We really appreciate it Todd!

I hope everyone has a great weekend and enjoys time with their friends and families!  We are planning on being very low-key and looking forward to Thomas's coming home on Monday!
Thanks everyone for your prayers, they are valued and appreciated!  



Ron Carbaugh

Thomas is home now, but had a difficult time the first night. Praying he'll be able to get some strength back before the trip to Duke. Here's the update from Clinta:

Monday, March 15, 2010 9:56 PM, EDT

From Clinta - We're home and today was probably the worst day, (second to finding out Thomas has brain cancer) that we've had since finding the tumor on February 16th, tomorrow being the 1 month anniversary!  Everything went relatively smooth at the hospital with the discharge other than having to track down the equipment.  As Trey and I helped in him the car, he started to collapse and the nurse and Trey were able to right him before he fell to the ground.  I wish I could say we had the same ending when it happened at the house later.  We were trained that if Thomas started to lose his balance or fall and we can't get him up or back into balance, to help him easily, slowly fall to the ground and that's what we had to do.  Hannah and Trey were both with me and it was just too much for us.  We left him on the floor, sitting up partially, surrounded by pillows for awhile so that he could try and regain some of his strength.  Eventually, Hannah and Trey were able to lift him enough to get him on the couch.  I have been unable to help with any of the physical movement because earlier on, I pulled a muscle in my back trying to help.  Trey had to literally pick him up in the wheelchair to get him in the house.  What would I do without my children?  To say that Thomas felt depressed, worthless and an annoyance would be an understatement.  He said things that I won't repeat because we told him to stop thinking that way.  It was so discouraging and sad.  

This evening has been better but I think it's because once Trey got him in the bed, he's been sleeping on and off.  At one point, I asked him if he wanted to get in the wheelchair to eat dinner and he said he didn't want to get out of bed.  For now, it's ok.  It's not what the doctors want because they feel that it's important for Thomas to sit in a chair during the day to have activity and to help prevent atrophy of his muscles on the left side of his body.  I feed him a little while ago and I think he's mentally better.  He told me earlier that he thought it was going to be so great to be home but now with all he is putting Hannah, Trey and I through, he said he's not so sure anymore.  Of course, I told him that's crazy talk and I won't hear it!!  I think that this second surgery has taken the wind out of him and he's just so weak and has no energy.  Before, he was able to help us with moving him or himself but it seems now as if that gusto is gone and I'm sure it's just temporary.  

With all of our bedrooms being upstairs and Thomas unable to navigate the stairs, Trey and Hannah disassembled our dining room table and we are converting the dining room into a bedroom for him.  I think it will work pretty well.  I went and purchased sheets, blanket and pillows for the hospital bed so I've tried to make it as comfortable as possible for him.

This reminds me, I have a special request.  When Ron was here visiting he gave me a great idea that I would like to do a variation of for Thomas.  Many of you reading this journal have been friends with Thomas for years and years, some of you are newer friends.  If you have a picture of Thomas that you are fond of or you think is a great shot of him, I would really appreciate it if you could mail a copy to me.  I am going to put together a collage of pictures for him to hang around his room to help keep his spirits high and remind him of fond memories and friends.  Please send it to Clinta Carmichael, 27 Summer Valley Court, Greer, SC 29651.  I would really appreciate it and I know it will be so meaningful to Thomas.  

I'm going to sign off for now.  I'm hoping that Thomas will get a good nights' rest so that tomorrow will be a new and peaceful day for him.  Please continue to pray for Team Carmichael, we need and value your prayers.  Love you!

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 7:03 AM, EDT

From Clinta - Our first night home was a mixed bag but we survived and I'm hopeful of a better day today.  I think that Thomas will get settled in and feel more optimistic.  I want him to get a lot of rest today because the trip to Duke, I'm sure, will be very tiresome to him.  No new news to report, but I will post later.  

I hope everyone has a great day!  Thanks for your continued support!



Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Just to add to what Clinta is asking for to help keep Thomas inspired.  While I was in the hospital (4 months) I had so many people come visit me and bring old (and some new) racing pictures for my Wife to post in the hospital room.  Actually some of the old pictures of me racing I had never seen and we had fun trying to remember which race track they were taken at and what year?   The POG sent me get well posters (I want to thank Doug, Paul, Al Born, Dane and the rest of the Penton Team for this help) and some pictures.  You can not imagine how it settled me down and made me remember the Good Days.  And don't think that any of the cards you have sent Thomas aren't going to be up on the wall.  Thanks for all the cards and Prayers.

Ron Carbaugh

I talked with Thomas a few minutes ago and he is doing his best to maintain.  He is strong.  Here is an update...thank God for someone to build a ramp.

From Clinta - Today was MUCH better than yesterday!  Thomas had a very restful day, sleeping in bed except for about an hour sitting up in his wheelchair.  I don't think he's gotten his energy level back to where it was prior to the surgery on Saturday but he's on the mend.  Of course, we will be mixing that up with our trip to Duke tomorrow.  I will start to get him ready at 5AM and then Trey will help me with getting him in the car around 6AM.  Our appointment is at 11 so I'm leaving with an hour to spare.  Please pray that the trip will be tolerable for him, it's going to be hard for him to ride for 4 hours without being able to get out of the car and stretch his legs.  

I had 2 earth-bound angels visit today that were so incredibly kind and thoughtful.  First off, Robert Cross, a friend of Thomas's from Cryovac came over and built a wheelchair ramp for Thomas so that Trey won't have to try and lift him any longer to get him in the house.  The ramp is really awesome and for me, it's the equivalent of getting a Christmas gift in March!  He also hung a hand rail for Thomas.  The whole time this project was going on, he was all smiles.  I didn't think construction projects could be done with a smile!  Then, Mary Patskoski, a very dear friend of mine, now ours, arrived with dinner.  She had so many dishes that she had to set several on the porch while handing a couple to me.  What a dinner!  First off, as I've mentioned before, cooking is not my forte.  Where I do excel is ordering in restaurants and drive-throughs!  I can whip up the basics but anything fancy, we just have to wait until we eat out.  So imagine our taste bud's surprise to have a home-cooked meal that was out of this world.  Chicken enchiladas, rice, black beans, apple pie and my personal favorite, heath cookies.  We didn't even put a dent in it so we're going to be able to enjoy that meal again!  It's one of the reasons for my delay in posting, I was weak from all that yummy food!  I was thankful for our chat also!

How can I possibly thank these two very special people for their help today?  Robert provided necessities that will make our lives easier and Mary provided comfort sustenance.  Thank you so much for thinking of us!  We really appreciate it!  

I will not post again until tomorrow afternoon or night, once we've met with the doctor.  We continue to be appreciative of your prayers and thoughts of well-being.  Think of us tomorrow at 11 when we meet with the doctor, pray for his wisdom and our strength to get through our 2 day trip!

Love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Please read and understand that we need your Pryers.  Thank You.

From Clinta - I apologize to all of our faithful Caringbridge readers for my late post.  I have cried for the last couple of hours and I'm not sure that writing this is going to get easier if I put it off any longer.  I am crying with Thomas as we are feeling a high level of despair at this time.  

We went to Duke this morning for our meeting and the ending was much different than our expectations when we left the house this morning at the crack of dawn.  Before I recount what we learned, there are 2 points that I want to make so that I can reduce or eliminate any misunderstandings.

I am one of the most optimistic people that I know and I want to surround myself with those kind of people.  I'm optimistic to a fault actually, even having it backfire on me in the past and yet I still try to only see the good and determine the best in every person and situation where I'm involved.  As I recall the conversation from the doctor today, please know that they aren't MY words, that I haven't for one minute given up hope, nor will I.  Secondly, I have faith, lots of faith, I believe in our Almighty Father who is the greatest physician and at any time He has the opportunity to change or alter or do nothing to anything or anyone.  I pray daily for a miracle as I know that God's provides miracles every day and even though others may not believe, I do.  So, know that as I share the information we were given, that I will not at any time give up this fight, I am praying and want you to pray for complete healing.  Don't let this get you down, it can't!  We need your prayers more than we have ever and know that Thomas is in for the absolute and literal fight of his life!

The infection in his head has changed everything.  I could go into detail about the continued missteps with the doctors, but at this point, my energies are focused on getting Thomas better or healed.  Having surgery this past Saturday to address the infection in his head was a medical must or he would have been put into a life-threatening situation.  But, the combination of his weak condition and the infection has made him ineligible for a clinical trial.  Since the surgery, Thomas's condition has changed substantially.  He has no energy, is very weak, almost fragile.  So the doctor is very concerned about our plan going forward.  

The type cancer that Thomas has is the number one fastest growing, most aggressive cancer that there is, more so even than liver, pancreatic, breast, lung, etc, he said it's the absoute worst!  After reviewing the latest tests and reports, Thomas's cancer has grown progressively and will continue to grow without some type of treatment.  

We left today with 2 options;  The first, do nothing and Thomas's prognosis is as you would imagine with a timeline that none of us want to even imagine, or the second option is to undergo chemo and radiation and PRAY that Thomas can get through it in his less-than-ideal health.  The third prong of the 3 prong approach that I mentioned a couple of weeks ago is no longer an option because of the suture, it will rupture and open it back up.  Even with the chemo and radiation there are additional risks because they don't like doing radiation with the staples still in his head but the doctor said that time is no longer an option.  For Thomas to have any chance of prolonging his life and stalling the cancer growth, we have to move forward now with chemo and radiation.

To say that we feel completely diminished is a gross understatment.  From the beginning, I've told Thomas that he has to be positive, try to have a good attitude because we want him around for a long time; to walk Hannah down the aisle and stand beside Trey at the alter should they decide to marry, hold our grandbabies should we be blessed with them.  But, I know it's not our plan, it's His.  I'm not questioning Him or asking why, I'm just going to continue to pray that God is not quite ready to take him home and that he will share his child with Team Carmichael for more years to come.  Please let that be your prayer too!  


Ron Carbaugh

Thomas made it home from Duke.  Here is an update and thanks for everyones kind words on this site and Caring Bridge.

From Clinta - We're home and so happy to be here!  We stayed at a nice hotel in Durham for our trip to Duke but we had a few challenges, nothing daunting, maybe just a little frustrating.  I could go in to detail about those, but I'm not sure for what purpose and at the end of the day, we're safe and that's what really matters.  

It's interesting how your perspective on certain things change when you are faced with real life and death circumstances.  I was just telling a friend of mine that I have caught myself several times, out of habit, saying to Thomas, gosh my back hurts.  And even though he's not, he would have every right to say, "are you kidding me, I have brain cancer, that's something to complain about!"  

Today, Thomas said to me, for the first time, "why do you think God let me get this brain cancer?"  Wow, first off, I'm don't know if I'm equipped to answer that, certainly not without relying on  cliched answers that probably won't give him comfort or an answer that placates him.  I don't want to do that.  So, if any of you have suggestions or ideas, please let us know, it would be appreciated.  

I told him that I believe one reason is that for many people, in bad times, they develop a closer walk with God, secondly, that God has a reason and that it may or may not become known to us on our time table and that God is giving Thomas a wonderful testimony to share.  I don't think that Thomas is questioning God per se, because he knows that bad things happen to good people, I think it was more in the vein of why did God give me brain cancer and what is His expectation of me now that I have it?

Thomas is scheduled to go tomorrow at 2:30 to the Cancer Center for a simulation appointment.  In essence, they will locate where the cancer is and mark him so that when he starts radiation they will know exactly where to point the radiation treatment to get the highest impact.  

We got home late, but my dear friend Mary, her son Jason and daughter Hannah stopped by the house with fried chicken, macaroni & cheese, cole slaw, and red velvet cake.  Thomas was very excited to have fried chicken because that's something I have never learned how to cook.  I tried to do it once and the flour floated off the chicken.  It was really gross!

Shortly after, one of my best friends in the whole wide world, Vicky Crenshaw stopped by.  We worked together at a radio station 14 years ago, (I can't believe it's been that long!), just to visit and chat.  It was funny because we were sitting in the den gabbing away and every few minutes, Thomas would interject a comment from the dining room!  It was so wonderful to see her and I'm so appreciative of her friendship.  

I'm signing off for now.  I will most likely not update again till tomorrow night.  The posts have been so warm and encouraging.  Please continue to post, it is so helpful to Thomas and I both.  Please pray for Thomas to have the strength and energy to get through chemo and radiation, we are dependent on it and God's intervention!  


Ron Carbaugh

thank you for the update, I have more to say but I will leave that for the care site...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Update on Thomas.

From Clinta - It's been a long day and I'm very tired.  We started our day at 4:16AM when Thomas woke me to ask to go to the bathroom.  Without wanting to take a half page to go into specific detail, Thomas took a fall this morning and it necessitated calling EMS.  They came and got Thomas situated back in his bed and I got ready for work.  Although I work from home partly, my company's office is in Charlotte, so I left the house at 6AM to attend an 8:30 meeting.  He rested and Hannah stayed with him since Trey had to go to work this morning at 7AM.  They had an event-free morning, thank goodness and Hannah, Trey and Thomas headed off to the radiation-prep meeting at 2. At first, the radiation doctor wasn't going to go through with the simulation because of the staples still in his head, but the kids called me and after my conversation with the doctor explaining that the Duke doctor said it wasn't ideal, but we are under very strict time constraints and we have no choice, she went ahead with the procedure.  Hannah said that getting dressed, getting in the car and the return home trip went very smoothly, Thomas just complained about being extremely tired.  

Thomas has an urology appointment on Monday, is meeting with the oncologist on Wednesday and is tentatively scheduled to start both chemo and radiation on Wednesday.  

This morning, Mike Gasque stopped by with 2 barb-q-chickens and another lemon pound cake.  (The pound cake made by his mother-in-law is wonderful!)  We have so much food from such generous people, I'm hoping that Jenny Craig makes house calls.  

Thomas's parents and our best friends from Columbia are coming in this weekend so I'm sure it will be a great weekend for us!  I hope that Thomas is able to get lots of sleep because he needs his strength to face the challenges ahead with chemo and radiation.  

Signing off for now, I hope everyone has a great weekend!  Thank you so much for your prayers and support, we couldn't have gotten this far with you!

Ron Carbaugh

Hello POG members;

Thanks for your continued prayers and support for Thomas, it means so much to both of us.  As Ron shared with you in an earlier post, we have a daily journal and guestbook on the caring bridge website.  Each night, I will read to him all the posts that he has received for the day and it is very uplifting to him.  It's his only contact with the world, so to speak.  So, please continue to communicate with him either through the caring bridge website,
http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/thomascarmichael/guestbook
or through this string.  This is going to be so critical in the next six weeks with him starting chemo and radiation.  

Also, since I don't know how to get in touch otherwise; Randy Kirkbride, thank you so much for sending the pictures of Thomas and the Penton 2010 calendar.  Thomas doesn't know about the pictures yet but I gave him the calendar and he loved it!  You are a wonderful person to have gone to all that trouble and it's greatly appreciated!

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!  

With love in Christ,

Clinta Carmichael



Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

Thomas,

I haven't been on POG in quite awhile, and just finished reading through this thread.  I'm so sorry to hear of your illness, and you've jumped to the head of my prayer list.

T, after Brother Ron took me under his wing here, you were the first person who went out of your way to extend a small act of kindness to me that immediately told me what a nice, considerate person you are.  I'll always remember it.  Thank you.  Hang in there, brother.

As an aside comment, people who ride/work on vintage dirtbikes are the best people in the world, and this Penton group is the best of the best - a really special group of people.

Larry Seale
I choose to ride...slower and slower all the time

Here is an update and thanks for all your Prayers.

From Clinta - Thomas had a relatively quiet and peaceful day.  Hannah and Trey stayed with him most of the day since I had a business luncheon.  I have learned some additional information to update you with regarding his chemo and radiation and some other items.  

A nurse from our insurance company, Cigna has been helping me with several challenges that I've had and she has been incredibly nice.  First off, she is making arrangements for Thomas to continue to get physical and occupational therapy at home.  We had been told at the hospital that we couldn't do that and go to an outpatient center for radiation, but that was wrong.  So hopefully we will be able to have someone come to the house to continue the treatment for both his left arm and leg.  Also, she is making arrangments to get a shower wheelchair to help facilitate showers for him since we don't have a bath tub or shower stall on our first floor.  This will be tremendously helpful since we've had to do the washcloth baths and sink shampooing.  

I'm still trying to track down the chemo.  He will be taking it in pill form and the doctor's office sent it to the wrong prescription drug place.  After multiple phone calls, I think it's in the right hands now.  Again, the Cigna nurse has helped me with that and hopefully we will get the medicine in by Wednesday or Thursday.  The prescription calls for 49 pills so that's 7 weeks worth as well as they are ordering a pill to help him with the nausea.  For both, the total runs about $ 3500 a month.  I have no idea the cost of the radiation but I'm thinking that I will find out on Wednesday when we meet with the financial counselor for the oncologist's office, (required) to let us know how much everything is going to cost.  

Thomas officially starts the radiation on Thursday.  His first appointment is for 45 minutes and after that only 15 minutes.  He will go Monday through Friday.  Fortunately, the place where he goes for the radiation in less than 10 minutes from our house, which is great!  

Thomas sat up twice today in his wheelchair which is double what he normally does.  He's still wiped out afterwards but it's good for him to have movement and to sit up instead of staying in the bed all day.  

We continue to be hopeful that Thomas will have the strength and energy to get through all the treatments.  Your prayers are a powerful tool in helping him achieve this goal.  Thank you for all you do for us!

Ron Carbaugh

Here is a update on Team Carmichael.

From Clinta - Good evening our dear friends and family;  We started out our day a little stressed again in that we had to call EMS, Thomas took another fall.  We are having a huge struggle with the bathroom facility in our downstairs.  The bathroom is really small with only a pedestal sink and toilet and the door width being 23 inches and the wheelchair being 30 inches.  Even with the handrail, Thomas is having to take a couple of steps to get to the toilet and it's just too much for him right now.  Tomorrow, a dear friend Robert Cross is coming over to take a look to determine if by taking down the molding and doing some creative renovation, we can widen the door frame to allow the wheelchair accessibility.  

I'm still trying to track down the chemo.  My head hurts from the multiple calls that I've made.  It was our hope, as well as the doctors to have it here by tomorrow, but I think Thursday will be the earliest if everything goes well.  I could go into detail but it's not going to get it here any quicker and it might make my head hurt worse to have to retell the story.  

The radiation doctor called today and asked me some specific questions about Thomas's prosthetic eye.  They are planning on going through that location to shoot the radiation.  She said that has been successful in the past and will give them a closer proximity to the cancer.  

Thomas's brother, Terence and his wife Melissa came and visited with Thomas today.  He was so glad to see them and they came as a daytrip all the way from Summerville.  They are planning on coming back on Thursday and we look forward to seeing them.

Also visiting today was Mike Gasque who brought yummy barb-b-q and another barb-b-q chicken.  We had it for dinner and it was delicious.  I might have to go back for seconds when I finish writing this.  

Thomas's Dad had a colonscopy today and I'm very happy to report that he got a clear report!  We are all so relieved!  

We have a VERY early appointment with the oncologist tomorrow, another getting up at the crack of dawn day, but that's ok, we are ready to get the ball rolling!  He is meeting with us before he starts seeing his patients.  I will try and get a report out to you at lunchtime tomorrow with an update.

Thanks, as always for being there for Team Carmichael, we appreciate it!

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas,
This is my first post on this thread, however you ARE on my prayer list.  Team C sounds a little embarrassed to be calling EMS.  DON'T BE!!  Helping people is what we do.  If you feel like you need to do something to acknowledge your local EMS crew, a letter of thanks to the fire chief or EMS director (depending on who provides your local ambulance service) always helps.  If you want to make the crew happy, drop a plate of cookies by the station...but check to find out when they are working.  The guys on the other shifts will be more than happy to gobble up the snacks on behalf of the ones who really came to your home!  :)  
Seriously, you have a lot on your platter and some serious challenges ahead.  Your EMS crew knows you didn't want to call them, but rather had no other option.  Don't hesitate to call if you need assistance.
Advice from a 35-yr fire service veteran.
God bless!

Jeff DeBell

Jeff thanks for your kind words and letting people know what a Great Heart the EMS life savers are and how they understand the problems people have at a time like this.  

Thomas starts Radiation tomorrow and hopefully Chemo this week.

Ron Carbaugh

First I would like to thank everyone at POG for your thoughts and Prayers and for the Special Gifts.  It looks like Thomas has so many Special Friends that are helping him it is just incredible.

From Clinta - Good evening everyone!  Can I get a Hallelujah!  This morning at 7:30AM, as Trey and I were getting Thomas in the car, a very strange looking brown Ford Aerostar pulled in the driveway.  Out jumped a UPS person and immediately I thought it was the chemo!  I was so excited and almost as quickly disappointed to open the box to find his nausea pills, yuck!  

Thomas and I went to radiation, and as promised, the entire event takes 5 minutes.  Today, was a little longer, just because they had to do a CAT scan to make sure that there hasn't been much, if any change in the cancer growth since the last CAT scan.  I didn't go back with him, but he said it was simple as pie.  He didn't feel a thing and it was over in minutes.  While he was in the back, the nurse explained to me that for 23 days, the plan calls for the radiologist to target the largest cancer mass and surrounding area.  After that, for 7 days, they will target a much smaller area.  I asked her what happens after the 30 days and she said that the doctors will do a review to determine the next steps.  

He's had no repercussions from the radiation at all, but it's the first day.  I think fatique is a very common and expected side effect so Thomas is getting a lot of rest.  

When we got back home, we hadn't been home but for a few minutes when the door bell rang.  When I got to the door, no one was there, but lying on the porch was a very large box that contained 2 medicine vials with Thomas's chemo!!!  I wish that I could say that my 28 phones calls with just about everybody in customer service and the pharmacy department is the reason that the drug company finally sent the chemo, but I don't think that's the case.  I believe that it was the phone call from the oncologist telling them that this is a life threatening situation and every day that they hold up the medicine is putting Thomas's life in more danger.  I called him to thank him for making the call and that's what he told me he said.  He basically accused them of incompetence and negligence, of course, when I said those same things, I'm sure they were calling me every name in the book when we hung up, I don't care!!  

I just gave him his nausea pill and we will take our first chemo treatment around 9 tonight.  Please pray for Thomas's strength to get him through this regiment.  The doctors are in agreement, that Thomas has a little more of a challenge with having the staples still in his head and fighting an infection at the same time.  But, for those of you that know Thomas, he's a fighter and can be the most stubborn, hard-headed person you've ever met.  It's those qualities plus God's guidance and your prayers that will get him through this.  

I know I'm running long tonight, a lot happened today but I need to tell you 2 more things.  We had an in-home physical therapist come over today which is wonderful.  She had me demonstrate how I get him out of the bed, into the wheelchair and transition him over to the toilet chair.  She said she was very impressed with how well I did it because she said that Thomas would be rated at a moderate to maximum assist.  She said that she had been told that he was a minimal assist but I explained to her that since coming home from the hospital, his strength has dwindled some and he doesn't have the same abilities that he had before.  She said that she will be able to teach me how to manuver him more strategically to put both of us in safer positions.  I was saddened to learn that Cigna will NOT help us with a shower wheelchair or even a shower-accessible wheelchair.  The explanation is that Cigna bases their allowances on whatever the governmental agencies like Medicare or Medicaid allow.  We don't use Medicare or Medicaid but they set the standards.  So, unbelievably, items to assist with personal hygience such as a shower chair or shower bench is not covered, even for complete paraplegics.  In our case, we don't have a shower or bathtub on our first floor, (Thomas can't walk up the steps), so it's been a real challenge for us!  I think that it's wrong not to cover it because hygiene is so important to your mindset, your morale and from the medical side, helps with reducing disease and infection.  OK, I will stop preaching because at the end of the day, I would rather the insurance cover things like chemo and radiation and I will figure out the shower scenario.  

But, guess what, I don't have to figure out the shower scenario.  My final update for today....Robert Cross and another friend, Butch Hensley came over today and finished our now, handicapped-accessible downstairs bathroom.  It works perfect and it's just so incredibly helpful.  Both of the times that Thomas has fallen, it's because of not being able to get the wheelchair in the bathroom, now that's no longer an issue.  Additionally, Robert with the aid of another friend has also offered to build a portable shower for Thomas.  I don't have all the specifics yet, but he has told me that we will be able to put the toilet chair in the middle and he will have the same capabilities as a shower.  (We can't roll the wheelchair in because it can not get wet!)  

Having always been an incredibly independent person, very reluctant to ever ask for help or a favor, Robert, (and so many others) have stepped up and have offered and provided so much help and assistance, that I am completely at a loss as to how to repay or even thank you!  With the unexpectedness of all of this, how can anyone be truly prepared, but our friends have come to our rescue and it has filled my heart with the highest level of gratefulness that I've ever felt in my entire life.  I know, and I wish this wasn't true, that I will have to lean on friends still yet, but my appreciation for the non-ending support, love and prayers overwhelms me.  Thank you!


Ron Carbaugh

We had a good week.

From Clinta - TGIF!  I'm so glad that it's Friday and the weekend's here!  It was a beautiful day today and it just feels like spring!  

Thomas had a great day today!  He took his first dose of chemo last night and had his second dose of radiation this morning.  He will take his second dose of chemo tonight and fingers crossed, the nausea will continue to bypass him.  He sat up twice today in his chair and has been in great spirits.  

Between the fabulous weather, (Thomas had me open up the windows for him so he can feel the breeze), the widen bathroom door, the ease with which his treatment is going so far, all has made Thomas feel so much more hopeful.  It lightens my heart to see him this way!  

A request for my dear friends; the doctor has recommended that Thomas cut down on sweets.  Sugar is not good for him and me too, for that matter.  So, although we have eaten some of the best desserts we've ever had in our life recently, I'm respectfully requesting that our friends not bring us sweets anymore.  If they are here, we will eat them.  

Please continue to pray that Thomas is able to maintain his strength and that the nausea stays away.  We are feeling so positive about the treatment even if it's in the early stage, we are so hopeful.  Thank you for everything!


Ron Carbaugh

Hello, this post is from Thomas's wife, Clinta.  I don't know a better way to do this, although it's not as personal as a thank you card, but I'm happy to share with all the people that are reading this thread, the incredibly wonderful gift that Thomas recently received.  Paul Danik sent a letter to Thomas explaining how the POG members aren't so great with sending cards but instead sent a piece of history to Thomas that is probably one of the most valued gifts he's ever received in his life.  It is a picture blown up to poster size from 1973 at Doe Run Cycle Park.  I'm quoting from Paul's letter:  " Doe Run Cycle Park was located just south of St. Louis and was owned by Dave Mungenast.  The bus is the famous Penton Cycleliner that the Penton team traveled in, the bikes were loaded in the back and the riders in the front.  The riders are from left to right, Jack Penton, Tom Clark, Dane Leimbach, Paul Danik, Doug Wilford, Jim Hollander, Jeff Penton and Billy Uhl.  We had raced in a 2 day ISDT Qualifier at Fort Hood, Texas the prior weekend and were now getting ready to ride the 2 day Potosi, Missouri Qualifier.  Dave Mungenast had graciously offered us the use of his facility to check over our Pentons as long as he could get a picture of the Team and the Cycleliner."

On the poster were signatures that had been acquired at the last POG Meeting.  The gang wanted to wish Thomas a Happy Birthday and I think it's safe to say, that is was his most favorite gift!  I've taken it to get it framed so that Thomas will have it forever to treasure and he does!  

Guys, history is so important and critical to Thomas because it's his passion and it's in his blood.  Your thoughtfulness was extraordinary and Thomas and I both thank you from the bottom of our hearts!  From Thomas, for the gift itself, from me, for giving Thomas a huge smile and many moments of complete and utter happiness!

Once framed, Thomas said there will be a nominal fee to view it!  Just kidding!  

Thank you again for your continued support and prayers, we are eternally grateful.  Clinta Carmichael



Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

Clinta, Thomas and Family,

   You can be assured that your post brought a smile to all of us who signed the poster at the last POG meeting.   Thank you for the kind words.

Paul

The poster... how cool is that, could not have been given to a better guy... way to go guys

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thanks for everyones Prayers.  Thomas had a good weekend.

From Clinta - What a lovely Sunday we had, rain & hail included!  Thomas had another great day, sitting up twice in his chair in the den!  No one that talks to him would ever guess that he's on chemo and radiation, it literally has had no physical side-effects.  Of course, we're hoping that it's killing, shrinking and stopping any further growth of the cancer!  

Our faithful readers will be familiar with our incredibly generous friend Robert Cross who came back over today with another friend, Scott Perry and the two of them built a shower for Thomas.  Honestly, if you could see it, you would think that it had been built by professionals, it's the bomb!  The way it is built, it allows me to be able to roll Thomas into the enclosed shower while sitting in his chair and then transitioning him over to the shower chair.  It is surrounded by shower curtains, has a basin underneath him and the ability to have the water sucked out afterward.  Unbelievable, truly!  Thomas had his first real shower in a couple of weeks today!  It worked great and these 2 guys worked several hours on it this afternoon.  Robert then worked on the caulking of the door he installed last week.  The assistance that Butch, Scott and especially Robert has given to Thomas and me is immeasurable and we will be eternally grateful.

I'm looking forward to a peaceful and calm Sunday evening.  I don't know why, but come nightfall, I feel really drained.  I hope everyone has had a great weekend and is looking forward to a productive week.  Thomas is scheduled to get his staples removed on Tuesday, I know he's very excited about losing them!  

Please continue to pray for Thomas's strength and the ease of his chemo and radiation.  We are so thankful for you!

Ron Carbaugh

Here is an update.  The mask is somewhat a very difficult item and I had to deal with it last Summer during my Cancer treatment.  I gave Thomas some pointers on how to over come the problems with breathing and other fears of being tied down by your head....it isn't fun.

From Clinta - Thomas had a good day today.  They ran blood tests at the oncologist and all of his "scores" came back good or as expected.  He got a little unnerved at the radiation treatment today because they took x-rays, (for the purpose of tracking the placement of the cancer to ensure that the radiation is still pointed in the right direction), it was taking longer than usual and he got spooked.  He's in a room by himself and from the description, it sounds like his mask is something from Silence of the Lambs.  He is strapped down so that he can't move his head, obviously they don't want to risk the radiation going anywhere but to the target, and since there was a delay, he wasn't sure what was happening.  All he can do is yell out because there are no buttons to push or bells to ring.  I heard him from the lobby so it was scary for me too!  

He's had no repercussions from the staple removal, no drainage and everything looks good.  He said that his head hurt a little this afternoon but I don't know if it's from the staple removal or the radiation.  

His energy level is still good and he was upbeat today. It's time to whip out our custom-made shower again which always makes him feel better too!

Today, we had a very special visit from one of my bestest friends, Jamie Arens.  It's because of Jamie that we have this blog on caringbridge.  When we were first told of the brain tumor, Jamie had suggested this site and said that she would set it up for us.  Wow, what a tremendous gift that was and what a blessing it is for Thomas daily.  Jamie is the Corporate Sales Manager for Panera so she brought us a yummy lunch from there and we chowed down, it was delicious!  It was so great to see her and catch up!   Jamie hasn't been around Thomas much but he wanted to make sure and let her know how much he appreciated her getting caringbridge going for us!  

Well, it's after 9 and I'm about to drop.  Time to give Thomas his chemo and hit the sack!  As always, thanks for your support and prayers.  Please pray for continued strength for Thomas, we appreciate it so much!  




Ron Carbaugh

A new update.  When you read this remember I had radiation treatment last Summer on my head and I had a mask fitted for my treatment.  Everything is OK until they bolt the mask down to the table with you(your head) in it.....kind of like a mouse in a mouse trap.  Not fun but necessary.  Thanks for your Prayers and for the Poster sent to Thomas by the POG....it all helps.

From Clinta - Today is Good Friday, I hope all of you have a great day and a wonderful Easter weekend!  

Since I took up so much space with my stupid furry beast story, (he/she did not make an appearance last night thankfully!), I felt bad about taking up any more space to write more.  But, there was another update yesterday, nothing bad or serious, actually good news technically, just irritating to Thomas.

Yesterday when we went to radiation, we were told that Thomas has to be fitted again with another Silence of the Lambs mask.  I actually saw the mask yesterday, the nurse went and got it for me to look at and now I would say it looks more like a plastic hockey mask.  The interesting thing that I didn't know before is that it has a tab on both sides of the head that are screwed in to the table so literally there can be no movement from Thomas.  I know that sounds harsh and a little scary but the reason for it is because if they don't prevent movement from Thomas and the radiation hits just one millileter, (I hope that's a measurement, I don't know my metrics!), ok, so let's say, if the radiation hits just one itty bit off, it could cause devastating results if it was to hit his brain.  

They told us yesterday that his mask has become loose and he will have to be refitted which he absolutely hates!  The process, as he describes it is that he is put into an MRI machine, again with his head totally immobilized so that they can scan for cancer placement and redraw a mask for his head.  Initially, when they told me I questioned them because I know that radiation causes great swelling.  The nurse corrected me and reminded me that the swelling is on the inside not the outside.  So, what I'm guessing has happened is that when he was measured 2 weeks ago, he still had swelling on the outside of his head from the second operation and now that the staples are out, the infection is gone and the swelling is pretty much non-existent, the mask is loose.  All of these things are a good sign, just aggravating to Thomas that he has to go through it again.

We are having radiation at 1:45 and then we will go to the cancer center at the hospital for the mask refit.  Hannah is going with me since she will be here all day with us for "yard day!"  Last week, they lucked out with rain, but today, no such luck.  It's beautiful out and the jungle growing in our front and back yards have to be cut.  We would probably attract less wild animals if our grass was the proper length!

Have a wonderful day and I will post again tonight!  Thanks for being there for us!


Ron Carbaugh

Thanks so much for the up date, I know it must be very hard for you. but your honesty helps us to know how to pray. Happy Easter... He has Risen!

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

An update on Thomas......he is a fighter.

From Clinta - One more day and we can celebrate the weekend!  It's gray and the skies are filled with clouds here in Greenville but it's one of those very pleasant, sleep-inducing type rains.  There's nothing I would like better than to be able to curl up and take a nap but I can assure you, that won't happen!!  

Today was a 7 for Thomas.  His Physical Therapist called and changed the appointment to tomorrow so he was thrilled that he didn't have to deal with having to put forth effort and energy he doesn't feel within himself.  He rested all day but told me a few minutes ago that he's feeling very strange.  He's been having very vivid, strange dreams which I've been told is fairly common with chemo.  

I called the American Cancer Society today to see if they had any type of medical van transport.  I was transferred to a 1-800 number where they asked me all kinds of questions, they were very nice and said that someone would get back in touch by Monday.  They don't have a medical van that would enable us to roll his wheelchair into the van but may have a car that would have a driver that can provide assistance with his transitioning.  

The day has come that, at one point, Thomas had really dreaded.  If I say "a shave and a haircut, 2 bits," would that give you a clue?  I started noticing clumps of hair on his pillowcase so I wrote Robert and asked him about buzz cutting or shaving Thomas head since Robert does his own.  I told him that my only expertise in cutting is wrapping paper which I don't think will translate into hair, even if I put a bow on his head!  He recommended a Hair Trimming kit from Walmart which I purchased tonight.  So, in the next couple of days, we will be attempting to cut Thomas's hair.  

Thanks to my very special friend Donna, Tucker has a new home.  I've cried my eyes out having to give him up, (I was crying so hard, my son insisted on taking him for me to meet Donna), but he is going to a great home where he will get the attention and love he deserves.  There wasn't a lack of love from Hannah, Trey, Thomas or I, just the inability to spend the time with him that all pets deserve.  It will be such a blessing now for Hannah to not have to worry anymore about being home at certain times to let him out or having to leave him for extended periods of time while at school or work.  

I hope everyone had a great day today!  Thank you for your prayers, we feel them!  We love and appreciate you!



Ron Carbaugh

If you have time you might send Thomas a message on his site.  Caringbridge.  Thanks.

From Clinta - Good morning everyone!  In my heart,  because it means so much to us, I have been posting Thomas's visitors, gifts, services and support from our friends and family.  I've shared personal stories that were indirectly related to Thomas.  Initially, when I first started Caring Bridge we were inundated with posts, as many as 50 a day.  Recently, I've noticed that the posts have gone done to 2 or 3 a day and please know that for those of you who have remained faithful posters, I couldn't be more thankful.  However, so many people have not posted in a long time and it concerns me that I may have inadvertently offended them or perhaps they feel that my journal postings are off subject and not completely focused on Thomas.  If that is the case, I am sorry because I would not want to discourage people from reading and participating with the posts because they are not interested in anything but an update about Thomas which is reasonable.  

Obviously, my world is very focused right now and I'm ultra sensitive to Thomas's needs.  I know that you have a life, families, jobs, challenges, demands of your own and I don't want to be presumptuous and assume that the reason why people are not posting now is because of something I've done, it could be completely and only because your own life is calling on you and time is a precious commodity.  We continue to be so thankful for the outpouring of love that we have received and continue to receive.  Please know though that these posts are incredibly important to Thomas and probably are one of the most influential and motivating factors in his life right now.  EVERY DAY he asks me to read him the posts and there are days that I stall him because the posts are so few now that I don't want him to get discouraged.  He said to me last night, "People aren't writing anymore?"  It breaks my heart!

So, going forward, I will not post about visitors, gifts, food, etc, just know that we love and appreciate all of our friends, the visitors, the food, etc.  I know that many of you aren't focused on the social aspect of what's going on, but purely on Thomas's well-being and so I will change the focus of my journal postings.  I am requesting that if you have just a free minute every few
days or so, please post a short note.  Let Thomas know how you are doing, what's going on in your life, share scripture, a funny joke, or an inspirational thought.  Besides prayer, this is my request and I am hopeful that I will be able to read Thomas several new posts each night.

As always, thanks for your support and prayers.  If my post has offended anyone, please accept my apology.  This isn't about you and me, it's about Thomas and I will continue to be his advocate and ask for the moon if necessary on his behalf.  We love you!  


Ron Carbaugh

Thomas and Team Carmichael,
   Keep up the good work and know that the POG members are 1,000 per cent behind you and your total recovery.You are in our prayers.Once you conquer this we ARE going riding!Thanks Ron for posting the progress reports.Take Care,
                            Ric

ric emmal

Good morning Thomas and family. I am sorry that it has been so long since we have posted. It is not because we do not care... Things have been crazy for us as well.. As I write this my wife and I are sitting in this tiny waiting room. My Daughter has just been admitted into the birthing center.. She is 4 cm.. She has been on the edge of giving birth for several days and Kris and I have put our lives on hold to usher in the new born... Which was no easy task as my Daughter and son in law live 4 hrs from our home... By the way, We have enjoyed each and every post, We look forward to hearing from you. It helps us to know how you are doing, We want to know the struggles and the joys.. We want to hear funny stores as well as the sad stuff too... We feel like you are more than distant friends and more like family... We are pleased to know that we are a blessing.. may the God of all comfort and compassion continue to be with you always..

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Well Clinta has plenty to read Thomas tonight....thanks everyone.  I was also ask to put up here the address for CaringBridge.  So here it is and Thanks Again.

Dear Ron,

A new journal entry for Thomas's CaringBridge website was posted at 7:35:00 AM on Apr 9, 2010.

Read the latest update and show your support at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/thomascarmichael

Ron Carbaugh

Thanks for the Prayers and posts.

From Clinta -

Ask, and it shall be given you, seek. and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you.  Matthew 7:7

Throughout the afternoon as I would occasionally check in on Caring Bridge and there would be several more postings, I would slowly shake my head in amazement.  I worried from the minute I posted the journal this morning, that my "friendly" reminder or request would be misinterpreted.  Not knowing the cause for the reduction in posts is what motivated my offer to stop my story telling and visitor updates as an olive branch in the event that it was alienating or irritating any of the readers.  The last thing I would want to do is to "run off" a reader due to my posting of non-pertinent information.  

Tonight, I read the incredible posts from so many people today, the list including new posters who don't even know us but care enough to take the time to send a message.  Our heart goes out to the Gilman's who posted and shared that their daughter is going through a similar situation as Thomas.  Mr. & Mrs. Gilman, Thomas said that if you or your daughter would like to call us to talk, we would be happy to talk with you.  My cell phone number is 864-905-3180 and feel free to call anytime.  You didn't mention your daughter's name, but if you would post again and share it, we would like to pray for her and I'm sure our friends on this site would be happy to pray for her also.  

Thank you so much to all the people that posted today and not just "Hope you're feeling better" posts but heartfelt, sincere, messages that conveyed your heart or your day or a laugh.  As I read them to Thomas, we both cried tears of joy and inspiration.  They were so touching, I can't thank you enough.  As of the start of this journal post, we had had 31 posts which is more than we've had in the last 2 weeks.  I am unable to grasp the appropriate words to convey my gratitude.  

As it appears through today's posts, many people asked that I continue with the daily details.  As a way of communicating the whole picture of our life now, I will, and hope that I can portray it accurately.  Many of you said very kind things about my posts and I appreciate the compliments.  It is a venue for me to express myself and to share with you the challenges that Thomas is facing.  With that being said, it's hard as the commentator not to put in personal comments.  

Today, was an 8.5 day which is an awesome day for Thomas.  First off, we got news that his infection is gone!!!  We are so happy that he won't have to get another antibiotic prescription or deal any more with the repercussions of an infection.  Mike Gasque came over this afternoon and buzz cut his hair and I will have to tell you that it looks fantastic, he should have done it years ago!  Then while he was still here, Mary Patskoski stopped by with pizzas from Pizza Hut, oh, I'm sorry, with pizza that she baked homemade in boxes that she was able to color to look like Pizza Hut boxes.  We love you Mike and Mary, thanks for helping make this one of Thomas's best days!

Cindy Yarborough, we received your fresh from Florida oranges and you are right, Thomas should have been naked when he ate them so I wouldn't have had to hose him down afterward.  They are so juicy and delicious!  You are welcome to visit us anytime you would like, we would love to see/meet you!  

As I sign off tonight, I want to share a quote for you from Robert Brault that is a favorite of mine:

I value the friend who for me finds time on his calendar, but I cherish the friend who for me does not consult his calendar.  

Please pray for Thomas's strength and stamina to get through the 18 remaining days of radiation and 33 days of chemo.  Thank you for all your support and for those of you who took the time today to post, I hope you know how much it meant to us!  Have a great weekend and I will post again tomorrow!    


Ron Carbaugh

Dear Tom and Clinta. I have not sent you any postings yet. But I want you all to know that there are prayer warriors you may never know here in WV that are praying without ceasing, lifting Toms name and putting your petitions before the throne. Hang tough Tom. All things bring glory to his name, even if we never see it.
PS  When you feel like it, maybe a little trip out to the GRREEEERRR Dragway?
Hank
PSS Maybe urban sprawl has claimed the Greer Dragway? I spent some fun evenings there.


Hank Rinehart

As always, Big Brother Ron keeps the info flowing.
Thomas does appreciate the connection between the POG and Caringbridge.
I may not post as often, but the prayers are constant.


Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Great story today.  The people that Thomas worked with bought him a motorized wheelchair.  I am sure a Penton Sticker will show up soon to put on it.  Great day for Thomas as he fights for his life with your thoughts and Prayers.....THANKS.

From Clinta - What a lovely Sunday this has been!  It's been a very special day, beautiful weather, the Masters, day of rest and peace, who could ask for more!  

I have a wonderfully heartwarming story to share with you.  Not so much a story really, but a real life experience that is so tender and touching that, if you were in my shoes, you would hardly know how to react!

This afternoon, around 5:00, Robert & Carolyn Cross, Scott & Heather Perry arrived with, what seemed like dozens of pizza from Papa Johns and a cooler filled to the brim with all kinds of soda and water.  The drinks were iced down so that they were perfectly cold when you popped the top!  They brought plates and napkins and had the set-up for the best kind of pizza party imaginable.  Shortly thereafter, we were joined by Todd Patterson, Diane Bagwell, Chris Saxon and Roger Loomis.  Diane brought a German Chocolate cake that would make Betty Crocker look bad!

The purpose of their visit, besides spending time with Thomas and eating pizza was to deliver a motorized wheelchair that is the cadillac of all motorized wheelchairs!  It's unbelievable!  But more unbelievable is the fact that people from Cryovac pooled money together to buy this for him.  This wheelchair is so cool that I know that I'm going to have to keep Hannah and Trey out of it for racing around the house or chasing the cats.  The whole time everyone was here either Scott or Robert were sitting in it or riding it through my kitchen, dining room, living room and back to the den.

We all watched the Masters together, people pulling for their personal favorite golfer and had many laughs.  Since this journey began, for the first time, today, Thomas sat up in the den for over 2 hours with everyone.  Prior to tonight, he had never sat in the den for more than 30 minutes at a time.  He really enjoyed spending the time with his friends and of course, when he read the card that everyone signed, he was speechless.

As Robert and the group started to leave, he turned around and handed me an envelope.  He said that they had actually collected more than the cost of the wheelchair and gave me the extra cash left over which in itself was generous.

From Thomas's intiial run to the ER where he was told of the brain mass, now almost 2 months ago, his friends and co-workers at Cryovac have gone above and beyond.  I have watched in awe at the kindness and the never-ending support we have received from them.  Truly, his friends and co-workers have united behind him as any family would do for a loved one and it has been impressive.  

Today was 8.5 on the Thomas richter scale and other than hearing the cancer has stopped growing or is gone, we couldn't have had too much of a better day!  Thank you dear friends for your posts, (I am so appreciative!), and the continued support and prayers, we love you for it!  


Ron Carbaugh

Thomas is half way through his radiation treatment.  Thanks for everyone caring and Praying.

From Clinta - Hello my dear friends and family;  Today represented a double-edge kind of day for us, on the Thomas richter scale, it was a 6.  He felt pretty crummy all day and was very weak, we had challenges transitioning him, he needed extra support.  But, on the other side, he was very happy to see his parents and a very special friend, Danny McClellan, a childhood friend that he grew up with and who he has reconnected with just in the last month.    

Danny's father is Reverand McClellan, (and so is Danny!) and he was one of Thomas's ministers in the church that he attended as a child and into adulthood.  Thomas was close friends with Danny and his brother Steve as teenagers and thinks the world of Danny's parents.  They have exchanged all kinds of stories of things they did as teenagers.  

Thomas's Mom brought a pot of Chicken Bog, (which is the bomb!) and everyone heartily ate it while enjoying each other's company.  Thomas's Mom has a few signature dishes that she should market; lasagna, corn bread dressing, sweet potato casserole, chicken bog, and macaroni & cheese.  Growing up in the country, on a tobacco farm, she learned how to make traditional southern dishes that no restaurant can compete with or even come close to in taste.  Noticing how tired and weak Thomas was, they only visited for a few hours and then drove back home which is a 3 1/2 hour drive one-way.  

Dr. Matthews, our radiation oncologist, removed the remaining staples today from Thomas's head!  Hallelujah!  He has had staples in his head since February 24th which is a long time.  So, he was thrilled to get them removed, although again, he has been somewhat stoic all day.  Today was his 15th radiation treatment so he is exactly half-way and it's the start of potentially the more challenging phase.  His weakness and fatique is totally normal, it's just a tough thing to go through for someone who is used to being extremely active.  

Please continue to pray for Thomas's strength and for him to be accepting of the challenges of the radiation and chemo.  Please pray for Hannah, Trey and I, that we will have the strength also to be effective and efficient caregivers.  Thank you!



Ron Carbaugh

Thoughts, Prayers and Cards do mean something.  Thanks POG.

From Clinta - Tonight I asked Thomas how he would rate his day and he said it was a 4.  A 4??, I said?  Wow, that's a really crappy day!  I told him that yesterday, even at it's lowest point was still a 6 and he told me that I set the bar too high!

I spent about half a day today taking care of some business with Barbara so I was gone for several hours.  Thomas said that he felt bad while I was gone even though the kids were with him.  Very early this morning, (well just before 10!), Robert Cross came over to the house and revised the ramp so that it could accomodate the MotoWC.  He visited with Thomas which raised the 4 substantially.  Robert Cross is such an incredible human being and I was telling him today how my friends think he's a celebrity.  When my friend Barbara met him, she was telling him how much she appreciated all the help that he has given us!  

After he left though, I think the scale fell back down and then when Barbara and I returned the scale shot back up!  We came home carrying a very special picture that he has been waiting on for several weeks.  

Thomas has been a huge fan of Penton Motorcycles since he was a child, even with owning many different kinds of motorcycles throughout the years.  He grew up loving the sport of off-road racing and would spend every weekend from a young boy on up until adulthood racing at local and regional tracks.  About 12 years ago, he started restoring Penton motorcycles which today are considered vintage because they are no longer being manufactured.  He got involved with Vintage bike racing and helped to host an sanctioned AHRMA race called White Lightning held here in the Upstate last year.  As a way of showing support for all the Penton motorcycle fans, he is a member of POG which stands for Penton Owners Group.

Back in mid-March, POG held it's annual meeting and while there, the legends from Penton racing got together and signed a very large picture of these guys on their bikes in front of the Penton Cycleliner at the Doe Run Cycle Park back in 1973.  Receiving this picture with all the signatures was so monumental to Thomas that I took it with the letter that Paul Danik, the President of POG sent him and had them framed together.  The frame measures 2 X 3 foot, it's huge and it's beautiful.  For 5 solid minutes all Thomas could say was, Wow!  He shed several tears and I know that he considers it one of his most prized possessions.  

I knew from talking with him on the phone that he was having a down day so I told Barbara that we had to go by and pick up this picture.  He was so moved by it that I knew his mood would be lifted immediately.  I even got him to play several hands of Crazy 8s with me.  Although, when Trey, (the card shark!) joined in, Thomas nor I stood a chance.  I've really got to get that boy out to Las Vegas!  

For dinner tonight, we had yummy Chicken Alfredo casserole that was delivered personally by Jamie Arens on behalf of my Traveling Sisterhood group, (Jamie, Marcy, Cindee, Kimberly, Gretchen, Joyce and Roxanne), and it was so delicious.  They also provided a homemade Chicken Pot Pie which will be on the menu for dinner tomorrow night!  It's so nice when I don't have to worry, plan, shop or prepare dinner and of course my family loves having something edible for dinner!  Thanks ladies!  

I am very excited that tomorrow is Saturday and I'm hoping that the weather will be good so that I can take Thomas outside.  He's been wanting Hannah to get a garden going and although that will never happen, I might actually get inspired to start one myself.  It's also highly unlikely because even though most of my friends are yard people, planting stuff on the weekends, being able to actually identify their plants by names, my biggest interaction with yard work, is to walk on the grass to get the mail.  Oh, but great news today, the kids mowed the yard, yah, the neighbors won't be able to turn us in this week!  

Thanks so much for coming back to this website, for participating and posting, it's a gift to Thomas.  We love you and would ask that you continue to pray for Thomas!  



Ron Carbaugh

Hello POGGERS!
 
Dad asked me to post this of his framed picture of the Penton Cycleliner from Doe Park Cycle Park in 1973 with the letter from Paul Danik. It was a difficult shot but I think you will be able to see it reasonably well. Have a great Sunday!

Hannah Carmichael




(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h122/brhsgirl/058.jpg)





Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

As you can see our Prayers and cards are working.  If you have time to make a post please do.

From Clinta - It's been a restful, somewhat non-eventful day.  Thomas said that he didn't feel all that great today, but he did come into the den for breakfast.  He has also sat at the end of his bed several times, so that's good.  We're going to call this day a 6.

We will finish the Michael J Fox book tonight and maybe play some cards.  Tomorrow he will have radiation and meet with the radiation oncologist.  It would be great if we could get some more good news.  

I hope that all of you have a great week and I will be sending out a new post tomorrow night!  Thanks for your prayers and continued support!  Love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Well, I do have a few minutes so I will make a post.
Thomas, I check my POG every morning with my coffee and I look for this thread first. You are still being thought of on this side of the mountains and we are hoping for your continued success in this struggle.

Patrick
Cosby, Tennessee

Thanks for the posts the POG people have made.  Thomas is having a tough time and the treatment will do it to one who thinks that he is such a problem for his Family.  Thanks for your Prayers.

From Clinta - Today was not such a great day for Thomas, maybe a 5.5.  I left this morning to work in Columbia and I had arranged for 2 different people to sit with Thomas.  I don't think that necessarily affected his mood tonight but he was very angry and nothing would settle him.  He's come to a point and reasonably so, where he's frustrated with having to be in a bed for many hours a day and yet when it's suggested that he sit up or go outside, he doesn't want to do that either.  I'm hopeful that with a new day just around the corner, that tomorrow he will feel better.  

As soon as I walked in the door tonight, he told me that it's been a strange day.  In addition to the 2 people that sat with him, Hannah came and had lunch with him and then Trey was with him all afternoon.  He told me he's tired of being an invalid and asked me if it's really worth all the trouble that we go through to take care of him.  

I keep reinforcing to him that he's at a tough period with radiation, that everyone has ups and downs and that this is normal and will pass.  As you pray for him, please pray that God will give him peace and comfort with his treatment and physical limitations.  

As I was driving through Greer, I got a call from my dear friend Mary Patskoski who had just dropped off chicken salad, croissants and an Apple Brown Betty Pie.  Is it even necessary to make you guess what we had for dinner?  It was delicious.  When Mary called, she asked me if we already had any plans for dinner.  I told her I had been struggling with my choice of making corn dogs or ham sandwiches, she made my decision easy!  

If you post tonight or tomorrow, please encourage Thomas to stay the course, be understanding of his frustrations and let him know that his feelings are perfectly normal.  Sometimes, it's better to hear those things from someone else!

Thank you for your faithfulness to Team Carmichael, we are so lucky to have you in our life!  We love you!



Ron Carbaugh

Thomas,

Tough times never last, tough people do.  Hang in there man!  Praying for you.  -EP

Ernie P.
Chattanooga, TN

Thanks Ernie.....your words are so true.  Thanks Jack and Paul.

From Clinta - Good evening friends and family!  It's definitely been a roller-coaster day for us!  This morning, Thomas was having a very strong 4 day, but tonight it has ended on a good note with the Thomas scale climbing back up to a 7.  

He woke me this morning at 5.  He was having challenges and not feeling good at all.  He has been really weak throughout the day with all of his transitions and the radiation treatment seemed to take longer than usual.  The nurses explained that they were taking x-rays to get the program set up for his last 7 days of treatment.  After today, he only has 10 days of treatment left and the last 7 will be changed to treat a different area than the area treated during the first 23 days.  Thomas said that not only was he bolted to the table by the mask on his head and face, but they strapped him in by the arms and legs and it was very disturbing to him.  I can't imagine how scary that must have felt and I could tell by his face when they brought him out, that he was upset.  

When we got back to the house, I made him a fried egg sandwich for breakfast and after he finished eating it, I put him back in his bed.  Hannah and/or Trey were with him all day and he was just so uncomfortable.  Throughout the day, we were not able to assure him or get him to a place of calm.

After lunch though, he received a package from my dear friend and co-worker, Jennifer Thompson.  In the package was the most beautiful wind chimes and the music that they make is wonderful.  Jennifer had asked me about wind chimes for him and I had told her how much he loves them.  Behind his bed are 2 large windowns and often we will open the windows so that he can feel the breeze.  Receiving the chimes was emotional for him and he loves them!

That began the turn in the day.  After we hung the chimes, I brought him into the den and read him many of the posts that had been left for him today.  There were so many inspirational posts, so encouraging and they were helpful to him.  It's so easy when you feel as bad as he does, to lose sight of the fact that this is just temporary and that just as quickly as it came on him, it can go away just as fast.

At dinnertime, Thomas received a call from one of his heros, Jack Penton. I have written previously in a former journal, Thomas's love of Penton Motorcycles and Jack is the son of the founder of Penton Motorcycles.  Jack himself has battled cancer and so he is personally aware of the agony of this battle.  When he called Thomas, I could tell that it immediately affected his spirit.  He was so touched that Jack would make the time to call him and then told Thomas to call him anytime he wanted or needed to talk.  Another emotional moment for Thomas, but the dial on the scale is still going in the right direction.  

At about the same time that Jack called, Randy and Debbie Strickland stopped by the house to check on Thomas and to pray with us.  They have been so faithful in watching over us.  Randy told us that he says his prayers every morning at 5:30 and that Thomas is the first name he mentions.  We are very appreciative of their support!

Within the hour, Thomas got another call from someone that Thomas looks up to, Paul Danik also of the Penton Owners Group association, I have written about him previously too.  Paul wanted to check in on Thomas and reassure him that the POG members are behind him and pulling for him.    

At this point, I asked Thomas, where are we on the scale?  He said, easily a 7.  I told him I was so happy that he was in a different place from this morning.  I am so glad that as he fell asleep tonight, his spirits had been raised.  I am so hopeful that he will have a good nights rest.  

I stand by the door to the dining room at night as he falls asleep and sometimes he's peaceful, sometimes he talks in his sleep.  It's amazing how the pain from your heart can hurt so much more than anything physical you've ever felt before.  I remember the night that we found out that he had the brain mass, I was following the ambulance to transport him to Greenville Memorial's main hospital and I was crying out to God, please don't do this, please don't allow a brain mass to be in his head.  I've asked God to let me take Thomas's place, is there anything I can do so that Thomas won't have this agony?

So, as I close tonight, I want to thank everyone for your posts, they continue to be one of our greatest gifts.  As you write to Thomas and encourage him, the side benefit is that it encourages me too, because this is hard, so hard.  Please continue to pray for Thomas's strength or for comfort in getting through this tough patch.  We are so grateful to all of our caringbridge and pentonusa.org followers.      


Ron Carbaugh

Thomas, Clinta and family. I'm crying as I read the latest post. I know what its like to have those kinds of days Thomas. The kind of day where it seems almost hopeless.I remember sitting in a chair, watching my family do family stuff and feeling so frustrated. I lost 10 yrs of my life, my 30's, to Lyme disease. Through it all, my wife, just like Clinta, was my rock from day to day. My childrens teachers would tell me how they would ask for prayer for daddy. I am so blessed, just as you are Thomas. Hang tough Thomas. I made it, and we are praying constantly for comfort for you and your family, and healing for your body. In Gods love,Hank and Elaine Rinehart.

Hank Rinehart

Thomas is counting down the days on his treatment and as you will read it wonderful having a Friend like Robert Cross (and his Family) to help built their Home into handicap accessible.  Thanks for everyones Prayers.

From Clinta - We had a good day today, I would give it another
7.  Thomas's strength is good and he had no challenges with transitioning.  He has rested on and off but has also been up to sit in the den or at the end of his bed.

Robert Cross came over today to visit, but of course, never just to visit.  Today, he delivered a ramp that he built for Thomas so that he could go out the door to our deck in the back yard.  This will be great, now he can sit on the deck and enjoy the sunshine and our monster dogs.  Well, that's not true, we only have 1 monster dog, one extra-large and one medium.  They will be very excited to see Thomas again.  I'm going to try and find some patio furniture this weekend with an umbrella so that he doesn't get burned out in the sun.  People undergoing radiation and chemo have to be very careful in the sun, although we all should be anyway!  Robert also hung the Penton picture that I told you about a week or so ago.  It's very large and what I would consider heavy but he corrected me and said, "it's not that heavy!"  As always, Robert, we appreciate all your help!

There have been some requests for Thomas's picture.  I have collected about 20 pictures from him as a toddler up until last year at Myrtle Beach.  To put them on this website, I've got to find a way to scan them in, (they aren't in digital form) and then download them.  Hopefully, I will be able to do that in the next week or so.  

In the meantime, if you go to //www.pentonusa.org, the Penton Owners Group website, the homepage has a picture of someone on a motorcycle at a race.  Underneath the picture, there is a question, Guess who the mystery rider is, and if you click on that it will take you to the thread where people are trying to guess the rider.  The rider is Thomas and if you scroll down through the posts you will see several more pictures of him.  

We're down to just 8 more radiaition treatments.  We're counting it down and really excited about meeting our new oncologist on Monday.  We've heard great things about her and hope that we will be able to actually meet with her.  

Thanks for coming back to read Caring bridge and especially for posting.  To you, it may be a struggle to think of things to say, but even a short note to tell Thomas something about what you are doing is so appreciated.  Please pray for Thomas to have a quiet and restful weekend, that he will have an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors!  Have a wonderful weekend and I'll get another post out tomorrow.  Love you!



Ron Carbaugh

Hi Clinta and Ron,
In regard to the pictures you have, I would be happy to scan them for you and post them in this thread.  Even if you end up scanning them, you'll have to email them to me in order to post as you need a server to store the photos.

If you would like me to do this, please contact me at [email protected] and I'll email you my postal address.

Karen
Webmaster

Hi Karen;

Thanks for your offer to post pictures of Thomas.  When I referenced the "pictures," I was referring to scanning and posting them on caringbridge.com.  Thomas has already had a great deal of exposure on the POG site, but again I appreciate your offer to help!

Have a great day!

Clinta



Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

Just talked to Thomas via the cell and is he the Great fighter.  He is so determined to fight and is so Happy for all the support from the POG.  Thanks to everyone for your Prayers and Posts.

Ron Carbaugh

Just talked to Thomas and he had some questions that maybe Jack, Doug or Dane wouldn't mind answering.  This comes from the great poster of the CycleLiner that POG sent to him.  Thomas was wondering about how and where the bikes were were stored during a trip and where the guys rode in the cab.  He also wanted to know the color of the Bus?  Any input would be appreciated as Thomas' Wife Clinta reads to him every evening.  Thanks to everyone who has posed on his website.

Ron Carbaugh

The cycliner was Green and white the first two windows are over the bunk beds.  We had 2 besides alot of floor space The center (fore and aft) was for the parts wash and had to leave space for tha floor access to the engine, the engine layed on it's side about even with the window just ahead of the side door.  I think the largest load was during the Inter am series.  Wecarried all of the factory huskys plus the americans bikes, only one time did I see the back completely full and that waa because the Ramada Inn Orlando lost all its pool furniture (Sunday night got a little wild some times)  Everyone had a nice place to set for a few weeks.   Going to go play golf tomorrow ( first time this year) Oouch back hurts already.  Love to all

Hi Doug;

I'm sorry that we've never had the opportunity to meet, Thomas talks about you all the time, he thinks the world of you!  Thank you for taking the time to give Thomas his answers.  He is fascinated with the Penton Cycleliner and since we've hung the 2' X 3' picture right in front of him in his room, he looks at it many times a day!

Thomas said that ProV1 golf balls have been known to help out with a back ache!  

Have a wonderful day,

Clinta Carmichael, (Thomas's wife)



Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

Hi Thomas, hows it going?. Thought I might share a Golfing Poem/.......
Golf Poem.
 
In My Hand I Hold A Ball,
 
White And Dimpled, And Rather Small.
 
Oh How Bland It Does Appear,
 
This Harmless Looking Little Sphere.
 
By Its Size I Could Not Guess,
 
Of The Awesome Strength It Does Possess.
 
But Since I Fell Beneath Its Spell,
 
I've Wandered Through The Fires Of Hell.
 
My Life Has Not Been Quite The Same,
 
Since I Chose To Play This Stupid Game.
 
It Rules My Mind For Hours On End,
 
A Fortune It Has Made Me Spend.
 
It Has Made Me Curse And Made Me Cry,
 
And Hate Myself And Want To Die.
 
It Promises Me A Thing Called Par,
 
If I Hit It Straight And Far.
 
To Master Such A Tiny Ball,
 
Should Not Be Very Hard At All.
 
But My Desires The Ball Refuses,
 
And Does Exactly As It Chooses.
 
It Hooks And Slices, Dribbles And Dies,
 
And Disappears Before My Eyes.
 
Often It Will Have A Whim,
 
To Hit A Tree Or Take A Swim.
 
With Miles Of Grass On Which To Land,
 
It Finds A Tiny Patch Of Sand.
 
Then Has Me Offering Up My Soul,
 
If Only It Would Find The Hole.
 
It's Made Me Whimper Like A Pup,
 
And Swear That I Will Give It Up.
 
And Take To Drink To Ease My Sorrow,
 
But The Ball Knows ... I'll Be Back Tomorrow.
 
 
Stand proud you noble swingers of club and losers of balls
 
A recent study found the average golfer walks about 900 miles a year.
 
Another study found golfers drink, on average, 22 gallons of alcohol a year.
 
That means, on average, golfers get about 41 miles to the gallon.
 
Kind of makes you proud.  Almost feels like a hybrid.

lottsa birdies, ur way!!!!
Tom...............
 
 

 


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thanks for everyones input.  Today was a great Day for Thomas!

From Clinta - We have had a good day, a 7.5 kind of day.  Although Thomas slept a good bit of the day, when he was up, he was in good spirits.  He has talked to a lot of friends today on the phone and that has lifted his spirits immensely.  

We met with our new oncologist this morning and loved her.  Her name is Dr. Gardziola and she was cheerful, spunky and most of all, very focused on Thomas and his needs.  I can tell that we are going to like her a lot.  When it appeared that things were running behind in the lab, I shared with the technician that we were used to up to a 2 hour wait at the Eastside office.  When Dr. Gardziola came in the room, the first thing she asked was if we would prefer that we waited another hour and a half and come back then!  She has a great sense of humor and everyone was warm and friendly.  I think Thomas feels more comfortable with a female doctor anyway.  

Mike Gasque came over and brought a dinner prepared by his wonderful wife Susan.  Oh my gosh, it was awesome.  Baked ham, homemade macaroni & cheese, fresh tossed salad and brownies.  Thomas called Mike tonight and asked him if he was trying to kill him, the brownies are so addictive!

Tomorrow starts the first day of his new treatment protocol.  We are so glad that we are down to only 7 more treatments but we have been warned that these last 7 are going to be very tough.  So please be very focused on asking God to help him get through the very worst of the treatment plan in the next 10 days.  His last treatment will be next Wednesday and I anticipate that he will be doing a lot of resting.  The doctor told us today to expect most any kind of reaction.  She told Thomas that he may feel like crying, getting angry, screaming or just being very quiet.  So, I'm a little scared of what to expect but Thomas has come through so far as such a champ and he remains worried about the kids and me.  He told the doctor today that he feels so bad about how much he's putting me through.  He became very emotional and the doctor handed him a kleenex and told him that when we married, just short of 26 years ago, the vow was for better or worse, in sickness and in health.  She said Thomas, if it was her lying in the bed, would you be there for her?  He said, "of course."  She responded by saying, "then why do you think she would do any less for you?  She loves you so much!"  (Do you see now why I think this doctor is so great??)  She was just so caring and compassionate.  

I hope that everyone has a wonderful Tuesday and has at least one special blessing in the day!  Thank you, as always for your support, we are grateful for you!    


Ron Carbaugh

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Hopefully these pictures will help to answer some of the questions that Thomas has about the Cycleliner.

I am pretty sure that these pictures are from 1974.

The top picture is just a shot out the windshield as we traveled down the road. Looks like the bus was on autopilot :)

The next picture is of the Cycleliner sitting just outside the Penton R & D building. I think that is Doug's van behind the bus and in front of it I think is the front wheel of Jack's van.

The next picture shows Tom Penton under the tent getting his bike ready for impound. It also shows how the front door opened, just like a bus.

The next picture shows the rear garage style door open and the ramp in place.  I think the ramp was stored inside, maybe someone will confirm or correct that fact.  The ramp folded in half length wise if I remember correctly. That is Bob Brooks from Michigan working on his bike. The bus had a slight smoking problem so the exhaust was moved from a lower location to the top of the roof. The exhaust from the bus could be seen for a good ways behind it.

The last picture was taken from behind the bikes with my back against the rear door. I crawled thru all the bikes and stuff to get that shot. The guy on the bunk looks like Penton cousin Chris Kovach, but I don't remember him being along, maybe it is Dane? If you look closely you can see part of the windshield in the front.

Anyone with any corrections or additional information please jump right in.  

Paul

The Cycleliner has to be the coolest team hauler ever. You guys really were ahead of your time with that rig.

Brian

'72 Berkshire

I agree, I have often thought that these days with races being so far and cost being what they are having something like that would work really well....

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Great pictures  The first one must have been taken while going on I-44 going south thru MO.
Thomas, you didn't miss a very good day to play golf yesterday up here anyhow.   It waa my first league night and it was COLD  about 44 degrees and a 20 mph wind from the north (off the lake).  A couple of Aleeve helped.  It was really border line as for the designated Fun category.  I finished 9 at 7 under my age[B)]
Saving the Pro-V1s for better weather.   Prayers and wishes for
you all.
Doug

Written by Hannah Carmichael via Thomas Carmichael :)

Save those Pro-V ones for later on in the year! I look forward to playing golf with you later in the year. I hope to set up a cycleliner #2 in a pace featherlight, but we will be making restroom stops. Hope you and Dot are doing well. Thanks Paul for posting the pictures! I now know that its red white and green, not red white and blue! I was looking to see if anyone parked their bikes in a lucky spot, but I see that can't be the case. Anybody got any team rider names to put on the outside? Or any other stickers that need to go on the outside?





Thomas Carmichael


1970 125 Six Day
1976 250 Hare Scrambler

Tough day for Thomas.....I did talk with him earlier and he had Prayed for my Wife who is have some minor problems with Skin Cancer.  We had a Great report yesterday that I had shared with Thomas.  It is unreal that Thomas is so concerned and Prayed for my Wife when we all know hi situation.  Thomas is a Great Person.

From Clinta - Hello dear friends and family; I wish that I could joyfully share with you that Thomas had a good day, but unfortunately he didn't.  Today was a 5, a new low on the Thomas Richter scale and even though it climbed for a short time this evening when Dale Allison visited, after eating dinner, he asked to be laid back back down to sleep.

I am cognizant that what Thomas is going through was predicted and to be expected at this stage of his treatment.  What we are unable to determine is if his behavior and physical status is due to the radiation, chemo, the cancer or some combination of any of them.  I am choosing to believe that it's due to the treatment.

This morning, he remained weak with all of his transitions and his confusion, (delusions) have gotten worse.  He called my daughter at 2AM and asked her why she sent him flowers.  He is seeing things that aren't there but at other times, he's completely lucid and very sharp.  Before I left to go to Spartanburg today, he started kicking the railing of his bed and trying to get out of the bed himself, which would be a very dangerous thing for him to do.  I gave him a Loritab to help calm him down and from what I understand from the sitter, he didn't rest at all, but he did calm down.  

As I mentioned earlier, Dale Allison came over and brought ribs that he had smoked today.  He put a rib rub on them last night and they were delicious.  Besides working together, he and Thomas are golfing buddies and they have had some real adventures out on the courses.  He is such a great guy and Thomas always enjoys his visits.

I'm very happy that tomorrow is our last radiation treatment this week and then we will have a radiation-free weekend.  On Saturday, my daughter and I will be setting up the salt water aquarium.  This is not a project for the faint of heart, it takes a good deal of time.  With the cost of salt water fish, you have to make sure that everything's set up properly so you don't kill a bunch of costly fish!  So, until we know the water is correct, I guess I will have an only fish.  Hopefully, he won't become too spoiled until I'm able to give him brothers and sisters!  

Hannah set the tank up in the dining room with Thomas.  I think having the aquarium close by, will give him another form of entertainment.  I'm hoping that it won't aid in his confusion or delusions.  

Thanks so much for being a part of this journey with us.  This has certainly been the most challenging experience of my life and I know that there are yet more challenges to come.  Knowing that we have such a tremendous support network, as strange as it may seem, has been so helpful and I want you to know that our gratitude is infinite.  Please pray for Thomas's strength and stamina.  We love you!

 



Ron Carbaugh

Thomas
I think about you every day and wish you the best.  Hope to see you on the trails again soon.  Really a cool picture of you on your steel-tanker from a "few" years ago!!
Rod "Rocket" Gorzny

As we continue to pray for Thomas and Ron as well, please be sure to include Rons wife. I have learned not to take anything for granted, even if small and seemingly insignificant. We are all very blessed to have them in our extended family. Mike

Michael R. Winter
I enjoy rebuilding and appreciating Pentons!
1974 250 HS Pentons-1980 KTM 175-400'S

Thomas had another tough day, but he made it to the weekend.  What they talk about using the mask to hold his head steady can be a real challenge.

From Clinta - Although today was another low day, 4.5, this was to be expected and I know that Thomas is very frustrated with his fatique and not being able to get out of the bed on his own.   Thomas is struggling with delusions and especially speech.  After his morning nap, he asked me when we were going to radiation and after telling him that he had already been, he had no recollection of going, at all.  I told him about a conversation that we had with one of the technicians and he vaguely remembered it.   He told me that it was very dangerous of me to take him there while he was sleeping.  I explained to him that he was very much awake, he has just forgotten.  

What he doesn't remember is that he got very upset during radiation and called for the technicians to stop the radiation.  Apparently, he has additional swelling so it made his mask very tight and he felt as if he was suffocating.  They told me that he finished the radiation before he had called them so it wasn't shorted.  

His temperment is either depressed or angry so the kids and I are being very gentle with him and offering him lots of tenderness and empathy.  It gets a little unnerving sometimes because he will ask me, very often to post comments on facebook or the penton website that don't really make any sense.  So, I will tell him that I did or will post something similar but not exactly what he said so as to not confuse people.  When I got home from Spartanburg yesterday or maybe the day before, I came across postings that Hannah had done for him, (he must have asked her to post them!), that were kinda crazy.  So, if you run across these postings, understand that they were probably done at a point where Thomas might have been a little confused.  

I think it's quite an understatement to say that I'm glad the weekend is here.  No special plans other than setting up a salt water aquarium.  I've lucked out because Hannah is good friends with the manager of a Pet Shop that I've bribed with dinner for tomorrow night so I may be able to be a spectator of the event.  

I hope that all of our friends and family will have a wonderful weekend!  I'm praying that Thomas will get lots of rest and will have a better Saturday and Sunday.  We are meeting with our new oncologist, (who we love) on Monday so I look forward to finding out what we should expect after the final radiation treatment on Wednesday.  Thanks for all of the prayers and thoughts, we couldn't get through this without you!  Love you!    


Ron Carbaugh

Clinta & Thomas,  I know its been a long row to hoe, but you'll be done Wednesday.  Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday.  Hope you all get some rest this weekend.  -EP

Ernie P.
Chattanooga, TN

Great day for Thomas.

From Clinta - I'm calling today a 6.  There weren't any spectacular events but we will gladly take dull and boring!!   Thomas had a very calm and peaceful day.  He has slept the majority of the day which I think is good.  He literally laid down after breakfast at 8:30 and did not wake back up until 2:00 this afternoon.  

Hannah's friend, the pet store manager, is coming over tomorrow instead of tonight because he wasn't going to be able to get here until 8:30 tonight and since the aquarium is in Thomas's room, I didn't want them working late on it and keeping him up.  So, he's coming over after church tomorrow and they will work on it till Hannah goes to work at 4.  

We are having to go with Plan B on the aquarium.  I talked to someone this afternoon that works at Ocean Floor which is a retail outlet that sells salt water fish.  He said that once you have the aquarium set up with the water, you should let the water "cycle" for one month before adding the fish.  He also said that based on the size of my aquarium, I should only have 2-4 fish in the tank.  Apparently, salt water fish need their space!  

Thomas has been very anxious to get the aquarium set up and running and I just don't have the heart to have him watch water and coral for a month with no fish action.  With only 2-4 fish anyway, once we can add them, there probably isn't going to be a lot of action.  So, I've decided to make the aquarium a tropical fish aquarium which can be just as lovely and colorful as a salt water aquarium and definitely a lot less work.  

Hannah and her friend will have to go back to Pet Smart tomorrow and trade out the equipment that is salt water only for a tropical environment.  I know that once it's set up he will be pleased but I'm worried that he will think I'm disappointed, which I'm not, if anything I'm somewhat relieved.  

I'm going to wait until tomorrow to tell him because I don't want him to feel bad and one of the side effects of this type of cancer is that you are very emotional, a side-effect he has absolutely no control over.  If I can even avoid having to tell him, I will because tropical fish can be very colorful also and like most people, he probably won't be able to tell the difference.  

Another big event is happening tomorrow.  I'm going to Lowe's to purchase "stuff."  I can't remember if I've ever gone to Lowe's on my own to buy anything, oh that's not true, I did go one time to buy a plunger.  I'm having the vinyl in 2 of our bathrooms floors replaced so I have to buy shoe molding, a reducer and wax rings.  I know you are probably pretty impressed by the ease with which I threw out these words, but I know them only because the installers told me what to get.  I'm also buying Scott's Fertilizer and Weed-B-Gone.  I'm impressing myself now!  

I'm so glad that today was better.  Thomas's spirits are raised and I think we will have a good Sunday.  I'm preparing a traditional breakfast tomorrow and if I'm really in the mood, I might make grits.  

I hope that you are enjoying your weekend also.  I am ready to get these last 3 treatments done so that we can move into our next phase.  What that phase is, I don't know but I'm hoping to learn more on Monday and will share it with you on my Monday night post.  Stay tuned for more aquarium updates!

Thank you so much for your loyalty to Thomas and Team Carmichael through this experience.  Please continue to pray for his strength and for our stamina.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas,Sounds like your in the homestretch as far as this phase goes.Keep the Faith and hang in there for the duration.You are in my thoughts and prayers.
                      Ric

ric emmal

I have been out of the loop for a few days... I am at my Dad's  once in awhile I can find enough signal to post. None the less, I pray for Thomas everymorning... Remember Thomas, it is not so much that we are holding on to faith It is that Christ is holding on to us.. I have seen people who seem to have very little faith seem to abound in it when tought times come a long. My conclusion is that He hangs onto us and He gives us the faith we need.. I love ya brother...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thomas finished his Radiation and has one more week of chemo so thanks for all the Prayers and we move forward.

From Clinta - I apologize for the late post but I had actually posted earlier and somehow lost it.  So, since that time, I've had dinner with Thomas, run to Staples to buy a report folder for Trey, helped Trey with a final exam for one of his classes, cleaned the kitchen, given Thomas his 10 pills, put lotion on his feet and saw Aaron voted off American Idol.  It's been a full night!  

Today was a day that we have prayed about and looked forward to for six weeks!  Thomas had his last radiation treatment and that's over now!  He is very happy to see this day come, no more mask fittings or being strapped down on the table.  The radiation clinic gave us his face mask, I'm hoping I never wake up to it in the middle of the night, it's really scary!  

It's hard to know what to expect but the doctor told us today that for the next two weeks, Thomas will experience his worse fatique.  She said that the harshest side-effects of radiation generally appear about 2 weeks after the last treatment.  He is extremely fatiqued with little to no energy to do anything.  I tried to get him to sit up several times today, but he wouldn't.  I've been somewhat insistent in the past about his sitting up to eat, but I couldn't get him to do that either.  He has had a severe reduction in his appetite and I have to prompt him to eat.  The reduction in the steriods has helped made a big difference.    

Today was a 5.5 because of his fatique.  Although, I'm happy that Thomas will no longer have to deal with radiation, I'm nervous about what to expect going forward.  He will take chemo for one more week and then have a break from everything other than physical therapy.  This is where faith and belief come in to play and even with a solid foundation with both, I think it's normal to be scared.  

Major thanks go out to Mike Gasque today who came and visited with Thomas which was a huge help to me.  I worked in Asheville today and Hannah, Trey and the sitter were unavailable to be here with Thomas so Mike graciously came and stayed with him.  I am so appreciative of the help and of course, Thomas enjoyed visiting with his friend that he calls brother!

Since I posted earlier than normal yesterday, I did not share with you the incredible dinner that Thomas and I had last night.  Donna, the culinary master, Lazar brought over dinner and honestly, it was better than what a 5 star restaurant could do!  Sometimes, fancy isn's always better and last night we had a very simple, no frills dinner.  She had made a casserole with 4 or 5 types of beans, (I didn't say it wasn't lethal!), bacon, hamburger meat and other ingredients I can't name, slaw and Mexican corn muffins!  Oh my gosh, it was so good!  

Please continue your prayers, they are so helpful and we need them now more than ever!  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Thomas is having tough days...Please keep him in your Prayers.

From Clinta - This is a difficult time for us now.  I repeatedly have to remind myself that Thomas's condition is normal for the time period that he's in with his treatment.  Today was a 4 and a very stressful day for him.  To say he's weak is an understatement.  He's eating very little and is very short with everyone but me.  I worked out of town today but apparently he was very hostile towards the kids and although we rationally know that his behavior now is not really Thomas but the repercussions of the chemo and radiation and perhaps to some extent the cancer, it's still very hard on Hannah and Trey.  Hannah has been close to tears with him for 2 days now.  

For the first time since he has been diagnosed, he complained of a very painful headache.  I actually had to dose him with Tylenol, loritab and a sleeping pill to get the pain to a manageable level.  I'm hoping that the headache was just the culmination of a day that he tells me was a day from hell.  He complained also of freezing even when I put the A/C up to 80.  I had Hannah close off the vent above his bed so I'm hopeful that will help with his room tempature for him.  I'm very hot natured, so I'm sweating bullets working downstairs.  

Thomas woke me at 3AM this morning because he had spilled something all over the oriental rug under his bed.  No problem, I got that cleaned up, went back to bed and the smoke alarm went off at 5AM.  We have 8 smoke alarms in our house so I had to go through the process of figuring out the culprit.  Knowing that once I located the one that's lucky to still be in one piece today, I wouldn't know how to make it stop, (again, not something I've ever had to deal with, thank you Thomas!), so I went ahead and woke the back-up, Trey.  Unlike Thomas and I, he was sleeping peacefully in la-la land while this awful chirping noise went off every 3 minutes.  He got up begrudgingly and located the problem, replaced the battery which was defective, so we are still being serenaded and finally I told him to take the thing down.  It was the one in the den and we have another one in the next room over, the kitchen, that's just crazy!  

We've had a couple of people call to request visits and for now, we are asking everyone to hold off on visiting until Thomas has an opportunity to come back around.  He's just too tired to even pretend to be paying attention and this request comes directly from him, not me.  He's usually good about visitors but all he wants to do for now is sleep and since, according to the doctors, he hasn't reached the peak of exhaustion, I want to give him every opportunity to rest.  

We continue to appreciate your prayers so much!  Please pray for Thomas's strength and energy and for rest and stamina for Team Carmichael!  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Thomas,

My prayer for you and your family is that today will be better than yesterday and that tomorrow will be even better than today.  Hang tuff.  -EP

Ernie P.
Chattanooga, TN

A rough weekend for Thomas.  Thanks for the people that have signed the guest book.

From Clinta - The Thomas Richter scale is staying at a pretty steady 4.  I was concerned that it had slipped lower this morning but I think we're remaining steady.

Thomas has had an extreme headache since yesterday afternoon.  This morning, I maxed out on all the pain medicine that I could give him and was worried that it wasn't going to reduce or eliminate the pain.  I called the oncology office and luckily it was his own doctor on call. She is not allowed to "call in" morphine but said that if his headache continued for me to take him to the ER.  She said that they most likely would do a scan but that they could give him pain medicine and a prescription.  

Thomas does not want to go to the ER and he does seem better.  I would not hesitate to call an ambulance if I felt he needed to go, but for now, he seems like he's in less pain.  I don't know that the headache is gone completely, but it's definitely not on the level that it was last night and this morning.  

He has not sat up all day and won't eat anything.  I even offered him a vanilla shake but he wasn't interested in that either.  For now, I'm trying to moniter his pain and keep him comfortable.  I have been able to get him to drink some so I know that he is getting some liquids.  

Throughout the day, I have rubbed lotion on his legs and feet and aloe on his scalp from where the radiation has burned him.  I'm going to sleep on the couch beside him tonight so I will be close if he needs me.  

Hannah and Megan were going to get the aquarium set up today but under the circumstances, I told them to wait.  Right now, Thomas justs wants to be alone with the kids and me and no noise so I'm going to be strict about keeping things as sedate as possible.  

I hope you are having a good weekend and enjoying time with your friends and family.  The weather is awesome here and a great opportunity to get outside!  I look forward to the day I can take Thomas outside to sit on our deck.  

Thanks for the prayers and well-wishes.  We appreciate all the support and concern that we've received!  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Thomas had to go to the hospital.  Not much of a Happy Mother's Day for his Bride, but I will assure you Clinta is the best Bride, Mother and Caregiver anyone could Pray for.  Thanks for all you Prayers and I will assure you Thomas is as Tough as they Come and he is giving it his all.

From Clinta - I know that it's unorthodox for me to do a journal update mid-day, but we've had a very eventful last 12 hours.  I am just getting home from being in the hospital room ER since 3AM.  I was following an ambulance taking Thomas to the hospital this morning at 2:45, with Hannah riding in it with Thomas.  En route to the hospital, the ambulance pulled off the road, the paramedic who had been in the back with Thomas, climbed out and the driver climbed in.  Naturally, I stopped my car to ask what was going on and Thomas was profusely throwing up and they were trying to get an IV in him as quickly as possible.  

When I wrote the post last night, Thomas was settled and his headache was much better, still had not eaten but was much calmer.  Throughout the evening, I continued to encourage him to try and sleep but as it got late, he started getting more and more distressed.  By 2AM, he told me that his head was killing him and that he felt very nauseated.  Well, for me, that's all it took.  I told him that I was taking him to the hospital where he could get medicine to stop his pain.  Trey helped me dress him, I called 911 and Hannah, who somehow beat the ambulance to the house and they strapped him on the stretcher and loaded him up.  

First thing they did when we arrived was to do a CAT scan to eliminate bleeding on the brain.  There was no bleeding which was great news.  They ran additional blood tests and told me that they would get him into a room as soon as they could.  Keep in mind, that we arrived sometime between 3 and 3:30.  At 5:30, I was getting pretty antsy about his getting moved but they told me that it was going to be another hour.  Hannah and I both were exhausted since neither of us had been to bed yet so I determined that it would be best to take her back home so at least one of us could get some sleep.  When I got back to the hospital, still nothing.  At 7:30, I called Thomas's oncologist to see if she could move the process along faster.  Apparently, they were extremely busy on Mother's Day and so backed up that a typical 3-4 hour wait was now going to be, in the end, about 9 hours for us.  

While all of this is going on though, Thomas has been given medicine for the nausea and by the time I left at 12:45, 2 doses of morphine.  He was finally transferred to his room at 11:30.  He has been in and out of a very deep sleep, due to the drugs.  I let him know before I left that I was going home to sleep for a couple of hours and that Hannah and Trey would be there shortly.  Trey is working and Hannah was getting some sleep herself.  

They are running some additional tests but the primary purpose of his being at the hospital is to get his pain managed.  Additionally, they have him on fluids and clear broth to make sure he's fully hydrated.  Dr. Gardziola told me that when he leaves the hospital, we will have a new set of prescriptions for him.  He is actually on the oncology floor and as I was leaving, his nurse told me that they've called in a PT and OT consult for tomorrow.  I told her absolutely NO!!!  He's exhausted and you really think he's up for Occupational and Physical therapy??   He can't even sit up to eat!!  

Thomas needs your prayers for pain relief and good medical decisions.  I'm completely comfortable and happy with his oncologist, I know she will take very good care of him.  I want to do everything possible to completely eliminate or severely reduce any pain for him.  It's absolutely horrifying to have to stand by and watch someone you love so much be in pain!  I was a wreck at the hospital insisting that he get pain medicine!  But fortunately, the staff in the ER were great, the system just moves so slow!  

Thanks for your prayers, we need and appreciate them!  For all the Mothers out there reading this, I hope you have a wonderfully special day!  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Update on Thomas.

From Clinta - Thomas called me at 3:47AM to talk.  I wasn't able to go back to sleep so I got up and packed a bag for him and gathered stuff for him in the hospital.  I left the house at 6:30AM so that I could ensure being in his room with him when the doctor came.  Since I was here early, the doctor hasn't come in yet today.

Thomas has a very low oxygen count so they have him on oxygen as well as he has been having high blood pressure issues.  While typing this, his nurse who we have become quite fond of and she feels the same way about us, just told me that they got back the results from the blood cultures that they did yesterday and Thomas has tested positive for a staff infection.  UGH!!!!  Both the oncall hospital doctor has been notified as well as the oncologist who will be seeing him today.  

I could just scream.  Another complication!!  If you are familiar with staff infection, it's not an infection that you can mess around with and the nurse told me that going forward, the hospital staff will be coming in with sterilized gowns, gloves and masks to reduce their exposure to it.  

I'm waiting on the doctor to arrive but there's no telling when that will be since they aren't on a specific time clock for visitation.  As soon as I have new news, I will update again.

Ron Carbaugh

Tough Day in South Carolina.  When you read this understand what a port is?  When you are having a lot of IVs (needles) the doctors have to perform surgery to put a post in your body to put the drugs you need in one place without sticking needles in you all day long.  Infection in these ports are not uncommon in my experience.  Thanks for your Prayers for Thomas and his Wonderful Family.

From Clinta - I apologize for getting this journal post out so late, I just got home from the hospital.  So much happened today and most of it on an off-the-chart incredibly stressful level, that I am just too beat to go into detail on all of it.  So, for the purpose of needing and wanting to get some rest, I'm going to give a very brief summary.

It is confirmed that Thomas has a staph infection.  Apparently, there was some controversy on the first set of cultures drawn so they drew another set on Monday.  Both the cultures that were taken on Monday, came back positive.  There are several staph infection strains, but there are 2 that are particularly nasty.  One attacks the valves in your heart, (they did an echocardiogram yesterday) and the other is referred to as MRSA.  Both of these are extremely dangerous and we don't want him to have either, (we don't want him to have the infection at all, but he does) so we are hoping that he will have a very mild, common strain.  It's referred to as a community strain because it can be picked up out in public or anywhere there are a lot of people.  Due to the fact that Hannah, Trey and I have been Thomas's primary caregivers, we also have to be tested now.  Tomorrow, someone from the infectious disease department will be coming by to examine Thomas.  They suspect that he may have the infection in his port.  The port is a tube that was surgically planted in his chest for IV activity.  If they find that the infection is there, he will have to have another surgery to remove it and put another one in.  

Additionally, Thomas was scheduled to have an MRI today to take a look at the brain area.  The oncologist wrote the order and the nurse, (she and I did not have a good day and that's before this even happened!), translated the order incorrectly.  Thomas was prepped for the test, which means morphone and an anti-anxiety medicine, taken down to the department where he waited his turn, only to find out that because the order was written incorrectly, they had to postpone the test until tomorrow.  

Very, very stressful day!  It's good that the windows to Thomas's room are locked and I'm not referencing Thomas or me being the one to go through them from his 5th floor location!  On top of all the challenges that Thomas is facing, I'm incredibly exhausted and as his advocate, I have to go behind and question everything, there is no hoping that it's all ok.  Our first night, they had scheduled him for 5mg of his chemo, his dosage is 150mg.  I could mention more, but the importance of this post is not the battles that we wage with the hospital or staff, it's about Thomas and I don't want this to dissolve into a rage fest or a venting tool which I've done in the past.  I want to try and keep it positive but real.  

Tomorrow we will get the results to the echocardiogram, (I hope I'm spelling that correctly because I'm too tired to look it up!), we will find out the strain of the staph infection, meet with the infectious team and Thomas will have the MRI.  It's going to be a busy and full day.  

There was a huge highlight to the day and because it was so special and important to Thomas, I can't close without mentioning Ken and Anne Norton stopping by this afternoon.  I've told you before how much Thomas loves these two and I know that he always feels better after seeing them!  

Thank you for your prayers.  When conversing with God, I've given you lots of options to ask him for, and we appreciate it so much! We love you!



Ron Carbaugh

Very encouraging and Thomas called to let me know how he felt.  He is a fighter and his Family are just the best.  As you can tell this situation takes it's toll on the Family, but I will tell you I have met the Family and they are just the Best Loving Family anyone could imagine.  Thanks for your Prayers.

From Clinta - I can confidently tell you that this morning was the best morning Thomas has had since finding out that he has a brain mass on February 15th.  Barbara and I got to the hospital at 7:30 and went straight to his room.  I had not been in there  long when the oncologist came into the room and immediately said, "I have the results from your MRI."  My first reaction was complete alarm. One obvious reason was my concern over what we would hear, but far more concerning was the doctor's announcement that she had news that she was going to openly share with Thomas and me both together right then.

Since this process began, I have asked the doctors to please talk with me first regarding any news or developments so I can help filter the information that Thomas receives.  The number one most important healing tool, (besides prayer) is hope and I know that just as there are millions of different personalities and styles of people in this world, the same is true of doctors and their bedside manner.   We have interacted with doctors that have come across as cold and disengaged or blue-skied everything to the point of giving us inaccurate information, doctors that have chosen to avoid answering questions directly to doctors that are very compassionate yet truthful and forthcoming.  

It has been very important to me to ensure that Thomas be protected from unnecessary worry and to keep him focused on the positives and not dwelling on any negatives.  I believe there is a total mind-body link and it's very influential to a person's spirit and healing capabilities if negativity is not in the picture.  Thomas is involved in everything happening, I'm just the Press Agent that will, in many cases be the one who delivers the message to him.  

The oncologist told us that the news of the MRI was very good and that the tumor has shrunk.  I talked with her afterward and she told me that this is the expectation of what six weeks of radiation should do.  There have been cases where the radiation didn't affect the tumor, but shrinkage is the response that they are targeting.   The CAT scan that was taken on Sunday did not have good results so that's why they decided to do an MRI on Tuesday, (which didn't happen until Wednesday) to get a closer look at everything.  If Thomas had had the ability to shout from the hospital roof-tops, he would have and flown a banner over Greenville!  We are so happy!  

As far as the staph infection, (this is just one example of why I like to meet with the doctors first!), on Monday, they told us that he had the staph infection, infectious disease team will have to come in, suit up, we all need to be tested, hopefully it's not the deadly one, etc.  My children were scared to death!!  On Tuesday, they said, we're not sure now, it possible that the results are a false-positive, we're going to do the cultures again.  Needless to say, this is upsetting to Thomas which in my book, causes unnecessary stress.  On Wednesday we were told that now they think it's positive again and later that day the infectious doctor came to meet with us.  He's not sure what's up, he's not happy about the hospital report or how they've handled the situation, but hold on, we should get even more results on Thursday, (today).  

This afternoon the hospital doctor told me that they think the tests were contaminated, meaning whoever drew the blood did not clean the area well enough or there was bacteria on the needle or a million other things because the 4 different cultures all showed  different types of staph strain and if it was truly an infection that Thomas had, all the cultures should have had the same strain not a different one for each culture.  This whole situation was lunancy and unfortunately I could tell you a dozen more stories that go back to February where there was confusion or miscommunication but again, let's not be negative!  I'm thrilled though that he doesn't have a staph infection.  I dreamed last night I was shopping at Publix in a Hazmat suit!  

The oncologist told me today that they are not going to be able to tell us why Thomas had a severe headache, nausea and vomiting over the weekend.  It's most likely related to the cancer but we will never know for sure.  But, no matter because Thomas will be coming home tomorrow from the hospital, yeah!!  It's back to the whole doldrums but I welcome it.  Since being in the hospital this week, I will have to tell you that Thomas has a way of putting my cooking in perspective.  While eating scrambled eggs that he had to scoop with a spoon and grits that he had to cut with a knife, he looked at me and told me that he can't believe how good the food is at the hospital.  I'm thinking it's time for me to invest in a Betty Crocker cookbook!  

On their way out of town today, Robert and Carolyn Cross came by the hospital to tell us goodbye and to check on Thomas.  They are headed over to Germany and somewhere else until the end of May.  We sure are going to miss them and wish them safe travels and so much fun!  With all that they've done for us, we should have had a bottle of champagne waiting for them in Frankfurt!  

You may have picked up on my weariness, but it's a happy weary!  I'm so glad that Thomas is coming home, I can go back to work on Monday and we can get some normalcy back at the Carmichael homestead.  Thanks everyone for your support and prayers, we couldn't get through this without you.  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Team Carmichael, this is great news... If I was not so tired from working all day  out side and then go on a 1 1/2 bike ride (bicycle) I would be jumping up and down...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Good day for Thomas.

From Clinta - Today was very peaceful and calm.  Thomas is still incredibly weak.  Earlier this evening, Thomas tried to transition to his wheelchair and was unable to make it.  We had a near miss and he almost fell but fortunately, Trey was able to keep him over and close to his bed.  In the end, he did not fall or have any missteps but we learned that his strength has not returned yet.  

Thomas has eaten well today and his demeanor is subdued but not depressed.  He is anxious to get his strength back and regain energy so that he can return to some of his previous activities.  

A big thanks go out to Mike Gasque, who again has provided us with absolutely delicious bbq and ribs.  The food is excellent and we really appreciate it!  

No special plans for tomorrow, just rest again, gearing up for next week.  Please pray for Thomas's strength and for Hannah, Trey and I to be effective caregivers.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

It's hard to believe that three months have passed since Thomas' trials began.  Tom, we all thank the Lord for your progress, and continue to pray for you.

Mick

Thomas is still very weak but I'd like to think that he's making the turn towards getting a little stronger.  I was able to talk him into sitting up for about 5 minutes tonight and we're planning on trying to do a transition into the wheelchair tomorrow night.  His appetite still remains weak but I think that as he regains some of his strength, his appetite will come back also.  

Today, while I was working in my Charlotte office, Thomas's parents, brother and sister-in-law came for a visit.  They didn't stay long because they didn't want to tire Thomas and Thomas said that he thinks he may have slept some during the visit.  Hannah and Trey, one or the other were with Thomas all day so he was well cared for during my absence.  

It's so incredibly helpful to me to be able to go in to my Charlotte office and surround myself with my wonderful co-workers and boss.  They are so supportive and kind.  It helps to re-energize me and keep me focused and motivated.  I hope for those of you that work, you have the same nurturing and endearing work environment that I do.  To say that this experience is and has been tough, would be a gross understatement, but it has been so much more bearable because of my company's compassion for their employees.

The physical therapist called this evening and wanted to set up an appointment to come tomorrow.  Thomas is in no shape to be able to undergo PT so I've told her to wait and tentatively look at Thursday.  They actually wanted to come out over this past weekend which would have been a joke!  

I'm hoping that Thomas and I get some good sleep tonight.  By 5:30 this morning, I had already cleaned the carpet under his bed due to a spill, changed his sheets, given him a bath, his pills, breakfast and 2 loads of laundry.  I'm tired!  

As always, thanks for your faithfulness to stay in touch with our day-to-day life.  This summer, Hannah is taking 3 college classes and working full-time and Trey is working full-time also so you can imagine how appreciative I am of their dedication and selflessness to help out their family during this time.  I am so blessed by my family!    

We appreciate your support and prayers!  Please pray for Thomas's strength and spirit.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

From Clinta - It's a tough time right now.  Thomas has not bounced back as quickly as the doctors had predicted from his radiation treatment.  Generally speaking, (with medical science there are no pat rules, only averages or generalities), all radiation patients have a down time following the last radiation treatment.  The average time frame is considered two weeks but again this is an average and not set in stone.  This down time can be filled with extreme side effects and almost always excessive fatique.

Since coming home from the hospital, Thomas has declined with both fatique as well as his mental welll-being.  He is extremely depressed and literally has no energy to do anything.  If Trey is at home, he is able to get him up to a sitting position, but it's just for a few minutes and then he has to lay back down.  I'm no longer able to lift him up.  Before he went into the hospital, he was able to assist me with his mobility but he's unable to help at all right now.  

He's so frustrated with being stuck in the bed and yet we don't have the capability to get him moved into a wheelchair.  I called his radiation oncologist today to ask her about his fatique and she explained that although 2 weeks is the general rule for seeing the turn-around there can be other factors at play.  For some patients it may take 3 or 4 weeks to see a recovery and yet still, for others they don't recover their original strength at all.  

The most important thing for Thomas right now is rest.  He's eating, not much but enough to sustain him.  He's struggling with being able to sleep.  I will talk to his regular oncologist about that tomorrow.  

If any of you have any ideas of something we can do or get him to help with his depression while in bed, please post them.  He's not into reading books at this time, doesn't have the patience for books on tape, not interested in movies or crossword puzzles or games.  Even though I know that he enjoys visitors, he has asked that I tell people to wait and come see him when he's better.  Unfortunately, what happens when he has a visitor is that he will muster up enough energy to be vaguely involved in a visit but then he will crash after someone leaves, the benefit doesn't outweigh the repercussion.  

I can tell you that my children have been a lifeline for me and especially Thomas.  I don't know what I would have done without them because I think none of us know truly what we are capable of until we are put to the test.  This has certainly been the toughest test of my life and my children have been exposed and involved in scenarios that adults who have lived a lifetime have not seen!  

My awesome and precious friend, Mary Patskoski stopped by this evening with 2 very yummy quiches and a pound cake.  The food was so good but the best gift Mary gives me when she comes over is her heart and her ear, I am so blessed to have her in my life!  

I know I sound like a broken record asking for prayers for Thomas's strength.  I don't know what God's plans are but certainly the best and most worthwhile prayer is asking for God's will to be done because at the end of the day, that's what ultimately is the plan.  Team Carmichael is so appreciative of all of our caringbridge readers, we love you!  


Ron Carbaugh

Good Day for Thomas.

From Clinta - We've had a good Saturday, all things considered!  Thomas has sat up a couple times in the bed today which is the best he's done since before he was in the hospital a week ago.  Sitting up in bed is the extent of his physical exertion but it's a huge improvement over the last 10 days.  He's not quite as depressed as he's been, but his demeanor is still very lethargic.  

Getting him to eat is still a challenge.  I repeatedly tell him that he has to eat to get his strength back and he will engage the motions as if to participate in eating but in the end, very little food will have been eaten.  Each time I try to get him to eat, I will ask him what he feels like, make suggestions to try and entice him with something he really likes.  This morning, after mentioning it to him 2 or 3 times, I took a banana in to him and he did eat that.  Today, he's eaten a banana, a poptart and a few bites of chicken bog, probably a total of 300 calories or so.  Tonight again, I said, you tell me what you want to eat and I'll get it for you and surprisingly, he told me a club sandwich which was somewhat unexpected but if it eats it, I'll be thrilled.  Trey just got home with it, (I sent him to The Clock to pick one up since I didn't have bacon, lettuce or tomatoes), so as I finish this I will go sit with him while he eats.  Keep your fingers crossed!  

I feel that he has had a slight improvement to his energy or strength and that's so wonderful.  I'm hoping that tomorrow, he will get a little more.  His interaction is suppressed but I think that more reflects on his weakness and depression.  

Thanks for staying with us and being there!  We are so blessed to have all the friends that we do!  Please continue to pray for Team Carmichael!  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

I am sorry that I have not posted on the caringbridge site.. I have tried to post and it does not allow me to... Be assured that I have not stopped praying.. I will bring it before my church tommorrow morning... May the Lord be your ever present help and strength. The beauty of the Incarnation is that God is not just in Heaven but with us, In Us, if we believe...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Good news and thanks for all your Thoughts and Prayers.

From Clinta - I am so excited that I can actually report some good news tonight.  Thomas is still super fatiqued BUT he ate more today than he has in 10 days!  For breakfast, he ate a fried egg sandwich, (I slipped 2 eggs in instead of 1) on whole wheat toast, he ate all of the eggs and most of the bread.  For lunch, he ate a 1/2 peanut butter sandwich.  For dinner, I suggested his favorite, steak, baked potato and salad.  I cut the rib-eye in half as well as the baked potato and he ate the entire half of the steak and about half of the half of potato.  He ate a few bites of the salad so he had a full meal tonight!  I'm so glad!  

It's interesting because this morning at the crack of dawn, he asked me if this is what the rest of his life will be like, meaning lying in a hospital bed, completely bed-ridden, unable to do for himself.  I responded by telling him that everyone is waiting on him to get his strength back so that he can get OUT of the bed!!
I think that he's been so depressed that he couldn't envision any other life but the existence that he's had since coming home from the hospital.  I think our conversation made a difference, even though he has slept almost non-stop for 2 days now which I'm sure has also helped.  

Thomas is still quiet, subdued and doesn't want to converse much but again, I'm sure the fatique is the culprit.  I haven't noticed any difference in his strength but if he continues to eat the way he did today, I'm sure that his strength will follow.  We discussed him being able to transition into our car by June 1st for his oncologist appointment so I think it helps to have a goal.

Thanks for being there for Team Carmichael, we are so grateful for all the support and prayers that we have received.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Good news and thanks for all your Thoughts and Prayers.

From Clinta - I am so excited that I can actually report some good news tonight.  Thomas is still super fatiqued BUT he ate more today than he has in 10 days!  For breakfast, he ate a fried egg sandwich, (I slipped 2 eggs in instead of 1) on whole wheat toast, he ate all of the eggs and most of the bread.  For lunch, he ate a 1/2 peanut butter sandwich.  For dinner, I suggested his favorite, steak, baked potato and salad.  I cut the rib-eye in half as well as the baked potato and he ate the entire half of the steak and about half of the half of potato.  He ate a few bites of the salad so he had a full meal tonight!  I'm so glad!  

It's interesting because this morning at the crack of dawn, he asked me if this is what the rest of his life will be like, meaning lying in a hospital bed, completely bed-ridden, unable to do for himself.  I responded by telling him that everyone is waiting on him to get his strength back so that he can get OUT of the bed!!
I think that he's been so depressed that he couldn't envision any other life but the existence that he's had since coming home from the hospital.  I think our conversation made a difference, even though he has slept almost non-stop for 2 days now which I'm sure has also helped.  

Thomas is still quiet, subdued and doesn't want to converse much but again, I'm sure the fatique is the culprit.  I haven't noticed any difference in his strength but if he continues to eat the way he did today, I'm sure that his strength will follow.  We discussed him being able to transition into our car by June 1st for his oncologist appointment so I think it helps to have a goal.

Thanks for being there for Team Carmichael, we are so grateful for all the support and prayers that we have received.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

that is great news, it is what I have been praying for... and will continue to do so.. everyday and everytime I think of all of you, which is several times a day..It is 9 am and cool out side but I have to pull myself from this chair and go finish painting a house... Blessing on all of you this day
Thomas you are a lucky man to have such a great family and so many great friends..

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

From Clinta - There hasn't been much change today with Thomas's strength or hunger.  Going forward, we will be getting some assistance from a Home Health care agency.  The RN will come in once or twice a week to check on Thomas medically and a Home Health Care aide will come 5 days a week to assist with changing sheets, baths and general care.  This will be very much appreciated by the kids and me as well as offer Thomas some relief from having to look at our ugly mugs all day!  

The RN today tested Thomas to see if he can transition into a wheelchair and he was unable to assist at all.  He has a doctor's appointment next Tuesday that if he doesn't get stronger, we will have to take him in by ambulance.  It would probably be safer to transport him that way anyway.  The doctor is insistent that he come in because at this point, the only treatment available for him is a short blast every 28 days, for 5 days of chemo.  I told her about his situation but she has to see him before prescribing.  A lot can still happen between now and next Tuesday so I'm going to remain very optimistic that he will be strong enough to transition into the car.  

Today, I uploaded 12 pictures of different stages of Thomas's life.  Like me, he hates to have his picture taken so I didn't really have a lot to choose from, especially recent pictures.  I've got a baby picture of him all the way up until a picture taken last year. They are on the Photos tab so if interested, check them out!  

Thank you for being loyal to us and for always coming back to this post, it is very meaningful to us!  Please keep Team Carmichael in your prayers.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

After you read this you may call Thomas' cell phone and leave him a message.  Thanks.

From Clinta - Today the Home Health Care company came in and replaced the bed and wheelchair that Thomas had with their own equipment.  The "new" bed is so much nicer than the bed he had previously, bigger with a lot more bells and whistles.  I had purchased several sets of twins sheets for the old bed but his new bed uses full size sheets so he now has a lot more room.  This bed is also using an air mattress that has air tubes that will inflate and deflate continuously in different places to help with any risk of bed sores.  

I was excited about his new bed but I couldn't get Thomas to join in with any kind of enthusiasm.  If anything, I would say that today was a very down day for him.  He is extremely depressed, rightfully so, and I'm feeling very inadequate in being able to get him through this.  He doesn't understand why his strength is not coming back and he's very fearful that he will not be able to get back out of the bed, new or not!  

I told him that each day we will have a new goal and if he is able to achieve it, wonderful, if not, no big deal but at least he has something to focus on instead of looking at the global picture.  Tomorrow, our goal is for him to be able to sit at the end of his bed without falling.  He tried today to do that, but was unsuccessful, literally falling 3 times.  It made me nervous since Hannah and Trey weren't here with me, so I told him that we would do it tomorrow night when we had back-up.  

Today he's eaten 5 chicken fingers from Zaxby's, an Ensure and 5 powdered Munchkins from Dunkin Donuts.  His food intake is still well below what it needs to be, but I'm thrilled that he ate this much.  He told me he wanted something called YooHoo so I went to the store and got a carton of it.  Personally, I'm thinking it's nasty but if he likes it, I will be very happy.  I offered to make him a glass earlier, but he didn't want it then, he'll probably drink some tomorrow.  

Mary Patskoski came by today with blueberry muffins, chicken salad and croissants.  She is always so thoughtful and on top of that, made a bank deposit run for me so I wouldn't have to leave the house.  Thanks Mary!

I'm trying to think of ideas that might help Thomas with his depression or at least raise his spirits.  So, if possible, I would really appreciate it if you would call his cell phone tomorrow between 10AM and 2PM EST and leave an encouraging message  for him.  I will take his phone from him and turn it off so you should go straight into voice mail and then over dinner, I will play the messages back for him.  To reach him on his cell phone please call 864-901-0854.  

Thank you for being there for Team Carmichael, we acknowledge it and are grateful for it.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Thanks to those POG Brothers that were able to through and leave a message on Thomas' voice mail.  You made a differece....and for those of us that couldn't get through I am going to try again today.  If you call just tell him what you are doing on your Penton or what you are doing for Memorial Day to recognized theBrave People that have ensured our Freedom.

From Clinta - What a wonderful surprise for Thomas when I played 14 encouraging, inspirational, funny and poignant voice mail messages for him today.  There may have been others that tried to leave a message and his message box was full.  He was so happy to hear all the messages, one of the first smiles I've seen in quite a few days!  I was blown away by how impactful the messages were and I can't thank the 14 people who called in enough for taking the time to call!  Please forgive me if I get your name wrong or misspell it;  Special thanks to Dwayne and Barbara Pittsenbarger, Cindy Yarborough, Diane Bagwell, Shamelle Young, Michael and Cathy Weisner, Roger Kirk, Jamie Phillips, Bill Hamby, Patrick Houston, Nelson McCullough, Ric Emmal, and Thomas's brother Terence.  This was so successful that going forward, I will turn off his phone each day from 10AM to 2PM EST so that if anyone would like to leave a message for him, I will play them for him while he eats dinner.  Again, his cell phone number is 864-901-0854.  

Today, Thomas's new Home Health Care aide came over, her name is Dee.  She's a tiny woman and when I first saw her, I had serious reservations regarding her ability to maneuver Thomas, but it was short-lived!  This woman is a powerhouse.  She whipped him around like he was a noodle.  But, she is such  a blessing and will be going forward.  Thomas had told me this morning before she got to the house, that he wanted me to stay close by, he was nervous about meeting a new person.  (Since being diagnosed, Thomas has become increasingly more anxious around strangers.)  I assured him that I would be there with him but trust me within 15 minutes of her visit, he didn't even know I was in the room.  

Dee gave him a bed bath that was amazing and put anything that I've done and called a bed bath to shame.  Then after bathing him with a very warm wash cloth from head to toe, she dried him and then put lotion over his head, chest, arms, hands, legs, back and feet.  He was in heaven.  She shaved off his beard, (I had told him that he was starting to look like a blonde Burl Ives), and was able to change the sheets while he rested comfortably.  It was an incredible experience for Thomas and if he had any reservations about an aide coming to the house, (and he did!), they are gone now.  She was absolutely fabulous and we love the nurse also.  

We're sad now that tomorrow is Saturday because Dee won't be back again until Monday.  She is working on Monday even though it's a holiday and asked us if we wanted her to come back and I told her, if you're working and want to come, sure, please come back.  She's getting time and a half holiday pay so it helps her too.    

Thomas's bath and massage was so good, it totally wiped him out.  He went to sleep at 1PM and slept straight through till 8PM tonight.  He's never done that before but my Mom always said, if you sleep that much, you probably needed the rest.  He had a blueberry muffin for breakfast and an Ensure, slept through lunch and then for dinner tonight, I've very excited to report that he ate 12 fried shrimp, french fries and then had a bowl of Butter Pecan ice cream.   Well, it wasn't so much Butter Pecan anymore since in a funk last night, I ate most of the nuts out of the container but thankfully he likes vanilla ice cream too.  He didn't comment on the lack of nuts but I just referred to it as ice cream without giving it a type.  

I can't really report that his strength is better per se but his spirits are and I'm happy for that.  He didn't sit up in the bed today as we had originally planned, (I offered to sit him up for dinner but he said that he wanted to pass and sometimes when he first wakes up he's still weak so I didn't push it as I normally would do), but we can try again tomorrow.

Thanks for everyone's support and prayers.  We are blessed to have you in our life.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

As you can see in this update Clinta and Thomas still continue to help others.  Thanks for your Prayers and phone calls.

From Clinta - It was a restful and peaceful Sunday, not much to report.  Thomas is still not sitting up but he has eaten much better today.  For breakfast, he had a blueberry muffin, for lunch a Quarter Pounder with cheese, small fry and a vanilla milkshake, (ate everything but did not finish the shake) and for dinner he ate a good serving of a chicken noodle casserole and a slice of pecan pie.  For those cynics out there, no I did not eat the pecans off his pecan pie!!

He didn't sleep much today but that could be because he slept enough for a week the last 3 days!  He's frustrated because I'm having to deal with our kitchen faucet being broken.  With something like this, Thomas would have it fixed and up and running literally in less than an hour once he purchased the parts.  Unfortunately, I'm not mechanically minded enough to even fake knowing what to do.  I've already kind of blown it because our faucet and sink are stark white and when I went to Lowe's the only ones they had were silver, so that's what I brought home.  Now, that I've got it at home, I'm looking at the silver faucet and sprayer and then my sink and I'm thinking that's really going to look bad.  In my world, it would be like wearing a striped shirt with polka-dot pants, not good!  

So, at the crack of dawn tomorrow, I will go to the competition, Home Depot and hope they have a single handled faucet and sprayer that's white.  My friend Donna Lazar's husband is coming over in the morning to try and replace it for me.  I had bad dreams last night that I would wake to the Carmichael Fountain going full steam in the kitchen.  If Thomas could get in the wheelchair, between the two of us, I might be able to figure it out, but I just don't know where the wood glue goes!

I'm so glad that Dee is coming back tomorrow.  Thomas has asked me both yesterday and today if she was coming, so he can't even fake that he doesn't enjoy the bath and shave.  I'm super glad that he is not nervous about it anymore.  I have a surprise for her tomorrow; she is going to be on vacation the following week and had said that she wanted to take her kids to the Riverbanks zoo in Columbia so since I'm a AAA member, I went online tonight and I am surprising her with tickets for her and her kids to go.  I can't wait to see her face when Thomas gives them to her!  

Only one more day left in our holiday weekend so make the most of it!  Enjoy your day off, (I hope you don't have to work but if you do, be thankful for your job!), and thank a veteran if you see one!  Continue to pray for Thomas!  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

From Clinta - It's hard to believe that we're closing down on our holiday weekend, they all go by so fast.  I know that two of my friends, Donna and Jeff Lazar did not get to spend their Memorial holiday, at least the first part, doing anything fun at all.  Donna and Jeff came bearing biscuits early this morning, (Thomas ate a sausage, egg & cheese biscuit and 2 blueberry biscuits, wow!) and got started right away on replacing my kitchen faucet.  Jeff was the project manager but Donna was his right hand assistant with holding the sink and using a putty knife to take off all the old caulk.  (Not only are they a great married couple, but they actually work well together!)  

You might be wondering what I was doing while all this was going on and sporadically, I would say, "is there anything I can do to help?" but I'm thinking that they felt that things would go just a little smoother with me in another room!  While they were working, Dee came by to give Thomas his bath and change the sheets.  She was so incredibly excited about the Riverbank Zoo tickets that she hugged both of us twice!  (We like hugs!)

Tonight, Thomas finished my doggie bag left-overs of a hamburger steak, (they call it Roadkill at Texas Roadhouse) and my stuffed baked potato.  I had also gotten him a peanut butter cookie from Starbucks so he had that for dessert.   All-in-all, Thomas has had an incredibly good day regarding eating.  He seems very confused and remains weak, but eating is such an integral part of healing and feeling better that I'm happy that at least that has improved.  

Tomorrow, we go to the doctor's.  Thomas will be transported by ambulance so that will eliminate any worry of his falling in the driveway again.  I think the doctor's visit is going to be uneventful and quick but I will be sure to update you on tomorrow night's post!

Enjoy your Sunday evening.  Say a prayer for Team Carmichael!  We appreciate it and we love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas had a good Doctors visit.

From Clinta - We had a very successful trip to the doctor today.  Thomas was transported by ambulance and there was no trauma or stress, it was great.  This evening Thomas commented on how the trip to the doctor was a non-event.  

I would also characterize the doctor's visit as a non-event also.  Hannah and I went with Thomas and the doctor is going to set Thomas up to receive a 5 day dose of chemo every 28 days.  Thomas was originally scheduled to get an MRI on June 28th and the doctor has agreed that, for now, he will not have to have it.  He was very relieved about that, he hates getting into that machine.  

He had a poptart for breakfast and then slept through lunch.  For dinner he had salisbury steak and macaroni & cheese.  He's eating, not a good amount, but at least he's consistently eating now.  He still doesn't want to sit up and had Trey been home with me tonight, I would have been more stern about it, but I was by myself so it makes me nervous to try and get him to sit up when I don't have back-up.  But tomorrow night, Trey will be home so we will try to attempt it.  

We continue to be amazed and thankful for all the support and love that we get each day.  Please pray for Thomas's strength and for his caregivers.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

We are making improvements.

From Clinta -  I have news that everyone has been waiting to hear for several weeks now, Thomas sat up in bed!  It wasn't for long and he started to fall several times, but he managed to stay vertical for 10 or 15 minutes.  No matter how tough or rough it was, it is an improvement and that's all that counts for now.  

The doctors have switched him from Loritab to Oxycontin due to his increased frequency with headaches.  I'm assuming his slight increase in confusion is due to the change in medicine.  At times, he's very lucid and sharp and then at others, he will say the strangest things.  Tonight, while eating dinner in his room, (the dining room) he asked me if I knew how to get home.  It took me so by surprise, that I didn't immediately respond and he said to use the GPS if I get lost.  

It's always been a joke in our household how bad my sense of direction is, to the extent that Thomas often says, spin me around 3 times and I can't find my way home.  I thought when he would tell me that I needed to put a cow bell around my neck, he was referencing my weight but he eventually told me it was so they could find me by sound if I got lost.  I'm still not sure about that one!

He set a new record with food today.  Breakfast was again his usual poptart, lunch was a quarter pounder with fries, and dinner was boiled shrimp and a baked potato.  (Thomas will eat shrimp in just about any form or fashion, short of raw!)   I believe he's not nearly as depressed as he's been and it's probably due to the medicine kicking in now since we're past the 2 week period.    

Thomas had several visitors today and he did well.  Hannah was with him most of the day and she said that he enjoyed meeting the Pastor from Vista Care.  He also met with the nurse today who had to draw blood, he got a bath by Dee, and talked with Barbara, our housekeeper.  So, my guess is that he will sleep well tonight.  I am going to Charlotte tomorrow and will leave the house at 6:30 so I will be getting him up at 5:30 to give him his medicine, refill his drink and get him set up for the day.  Hannah will be staying with him and because she likes to sleep late, she will let him sleep late and I don't want him to get too behind in his medicine.  He usually wakes me anywhere from 4 to 6 anyway so he might actually be up before me.

Please continue to pray for Thomas's strength, I was so encouraged for him to sit up today!  Thank you for being so good to us!  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Great News!!!! We are so glad to hear that Thomas is eating more and sitting up, even for a few minutes! We are continually in prayer for Thomas and his family.
                  Hank

Hank Rinehart

that is really great news, Not a day goes by that I do not pray for all of you... I will write more on the carebridge site.

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Way to go Thomas!Here's hoping Team Carmichael has a great weekend and the improvements keep on coming.Great news :D
                                                Ric

ric emmal

From Clinta - Today, Chastity came to take care of Thomas.  She is taking Dee's place while she is gone this week.  Thomas liked her but said she wasn't as good as Dee.  I think the fact that Thomas has a higher comfort level with Dee influenced his opinion but I wasn't on the receiving end of the bath and massage so maybe she isn't as good as Dee.

The Pastor from Brushy Creek Baptist Church and his daughter who is the College student's minister came to visit Thomas.  Hannah visited with them also and she said that they were extremely nice, very outgoing and they really enjoyed the visit.  

Apparently they offered to come mow the grass, (usually a good indication that your grass is too long) because they have a care team that will help with yard work.  I knew that our bushes were starting to mimic a rain forest and the purple hydrangeas by the front door could capture you and we never see you again!  It does seem coincidental that several people have said they were coming to visit and have never made it!!  

Thomas ate and slept well today.  I'm not noticing any difference in his strength but his spirits are still good!  Oscar is really enjoying the bigger bed too but unfortunately what originally was a love-hate relationship is definitely leaning more to the do-not-like anymore relationship.  It makes me sad because Oscar is just trying to visit and share the love and Thomas isn't feeling it, at all!  

We are appreciative of the posts and look forward to hearing from our friends!  Thanks for your prayers!  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

It is tough just laying in bed all the time.  Thanks for your Prayers.

From Clinta - A couple of people have asked about Thomas's bed in relationship to the bed sores.  Thomas does have an alternating pressure air mattress which is designed specifically to help with bed sores, but unfortunately there is nothing that is 100% when you are laid up in a bed full-time.

Thomas was down today.  He is very scared and frustrated that he's not improving at the speed he would like.  Obviously, it's not me laying in that bed, but I can feel his anguish.   Because I love him implicitly, it is so emotionally painful for me to not be able to provide the answers and more importantly the solutions that he needs.  Just like you, our caringbridge readers, my hands are tied to help him in anyway that will eliminate his anxiety.  I am able to take care of his physical needs and be a sounding board for him, but it falls way short.  There are days and times that I would just like to scream at the top of my lungs, but all that will accomplish is a stressed out vocal cord.

I've heard that you're not supposed to say Why, and instead Why Not.  That doesn't make me feel better.  There's a difference when dealing with the head versus the heart, a big difference.  Rationally, you know the reality, emotionally, your heart wants to protect you and insulate you from the reality.  

I've talked to many friends in the last few weeks.  Some are better at expressing words of comfort in critical situations like this, some will say right upfront that they don't have the words and don't know what to say.  I understand, I do.  Our friends want to be able to do something to help or say something to make it go away and of course, they can't.  I can't!  I am emphathetic to the difficulty that this situation presents for our wonderfully, caring friends.  I feel your pain when we talk and I know that some of you feel so lost about what to say.  But, know that I feel your love and your friendship and we are so thankful for it.    

Please continue to pray for Thomas.  I believe faithfully in prayer and I know that hope is a powerful medicine.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Here is the latest update on Thomas.  I want to thank the people that have indicated they appreciate and want the up dates on the POG site.  Prayers are appreciated.

From Clinta - Thomas continues to be very confused and struggling with even the simpliest of tasks.  I'm thinking that to some extent, if not entirely, his confusion is due to his regular use of Oxycontin.  As a test today, I did not give him his dosage for the morning or for tonight to see if his communication skills and other things got better.  Before anyone writes to tell me what I'm doing wrong, (surprising as it was for me, I've had a couple people write to critique or criticize my care of Thomas), know that if he was in any kind of pain at all or had a headache, I would be giving him the painkiller.  

He was so out of it today, at one point, during lunch, I pulled a napkin out of his mouth that he was trying to eat, thinking it was chicken.   He is saying all kinds of crazy things in his sleep and his speech is so slurred when he is talking to me, I can't understand a word he's saying.   I  could tell you so much more but it's very depressing and as I said above, I'm hoping that it's the medicine.  

Today, the chaplain from Vista stopped by.  He was telling us that as mere mortals we have so many questions that we would like answered.  But the reality is that many of the questions won't be answered until we get to heaven and then we won't care or at the very least, they will become insignificant.  His point was that, you have to put value into every day that you have because our life, no matter the length is short.  There are so many things that we allow ourselves to get hung up about, when truly, when faced with a critical situation like Thomas's, is your dillema worth wasting time over?  Because for many of us, with life's irritations, we waste precious time, using up our energy that should be and could be used for something valuable to you!  

Last night, Thomas woke me at 2AM and then again at 6AM so I'm hoping that he will sleep through the night.  He sleeps a lot throughout the day, even with visitors so that probably affects his ability to sleep through the night.  

I can't believe the week is just about over.  Thomas has visitors scheduled for the next 3 days so hopefully that will help him with his demeanor.  I will give you an update on his lucidity in tomorrow night's post.  Thanks for hanging in there with us!  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

thanks for the update, she makes a good point, life is so short there is no time to wonder about why things are or why this has happened to us, better to spend our time doing what we can do with what we have instead of worring about what we do not have...As always I can pray and yes I do believe that God does listen....

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thanks Thom.

From Clinta - There really hasn't been any change in Thomas's demeanor and it's odd when he will go from crazy talk to very factual, specific information about events from his past.  Today he had a wonderful visit from a childhood friend from Charleston, Danny Smith.  Danny's brother Matty was Thomas's best friend and he was killed on a motorcycle when he was just a teenager.  Thomas was very close to Danny growing up and they got in to all kinds of adventures and trouble.  Danny worked for Thomas's Dad and shared a couple of humorous stories with us about working for him.  

Danny would ask Thomas if he remembered certain events and Thomas said that he did.  Then, he would swat at the lift bar thinking it was a cat.  He complained that the cat was bothering him and in actuality there wasn't a cat nearby.  This afternoon he told me that there was a cat trapped under his bed and even though I knew logically that there probably wasn't, I always check because he and Oscar are definitely on the outs right now.  

We really appreciated Danny's visit and look forward to seeing him again soon!  After Danny left, by late afternoon, Thomas started complaining that his stomach was hurting.  This makes me very nervous because I'm worried that he won't have the same smooth sailing as he did with the first round of chemo.  I gave him the nausea medicine around 9 tonight and will give him his second dose of chemo around 11.  

We are scheduled to have more visitors again tomorrow and I'm glad because it does perk Thomas up to visit with other people.  I'm going to be sleeping on the couch close to Thomas's bed to make sure that if he should get sick in the night, I will be there to help him.  He's sleeping soundly now but I've got to wake him in a few minutes to give him the chemo, which makes 2 down, 3 to go.  

Please pray that Thomas won't have side effects with this round of chemo.  We know that we have lots of friends and family praying for us and we are grateful.  I hope you have a wonderful Sunday.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Update for the weekend.

From Clinta - Thomas had some wonderful visits today.  This morning, we had a visit from Mike Gasque and his father, Mr. Gasque.  I've known Mr. Gasque for years and years, and all of Team Carmichael love him!  He is so awesome and until today, we had not seen him in many years.  Thomas, who has been childhood friends with Mike, has always thought the world of Mr. Gasque.  He's just one of those men who are honorable, full of integrity and as solid an individual as you could ever hope to know.  Mr. and Mrs. Gasque were in town visiting Mike and Susan and to attend the graduation of their grandson, Pierce.  Mr. and Mrs. Gasque live in Charleston and aren't in this area very often so we feel blessed that he made the time to come see us.  

Later this afternnon, Michael and Alissa Jones came to visit and brought with them a wonderfully delicious dinner.  I always thought my spaghetti was reasonably good, but not any more.  The spaghetti that Alissa made was the best I've ever eaten.  As I write this, I want to go eat another plate of it.  The dinner also included a salad with all the fixin's, garlic bread and sliced canteloupe.  Yummy!  Thomas especially loved it!

My sister, (not by blood), Barbara Pittsenbarger arrived this afternoon from Columbia.  She brought a goodie basket for Thomas which included candy, foot cream from Bath & Body Works, a crossword puzzle book, a CD with sounds of the ocean and other soothing sounds.  For the household, she brought homemade crab dip, chicken salad, broccoli salad and canteloupe.  I can be found in the vicinity of the refrigerator for the next few days!

So far so good, Thomas has not thrown up because of the chemo.  He's still not feeling good in general though, telling me a couple times tonight that he's sad.  As strange as it may seems, but his telling me he's sad is almost more painful to me than if he had a physical ache.  I guess because with a physical ache, I can give him a pain killer and it's just not that simple with sadness or despair, another word that Thomas used tonight.  

Please continue to pray for Thomas.  We are so thankful for all your prayers.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

If you have time to send Thomas a card it would be appreciated.

From Clinta - Dee came back today and Thomas was glad to see her again, although by last week's end, he had developed a fondness for Chastity.  He has been eating well, particularly since Barbara has brought some incredibly yummy food.  He really loves the Hershey candy bites!

Thomas told me this afternoon that his head was hurting again but it was a 3 on the pain scale so fortunately it wasn't too bad.  He doesn't seem to be as depressed, but he's still down.  I've been thinking that it might be nice if he got some get-well cards in the mail.  So, if you feel so moved, I would really appreciate, (and I know Thomas especially would!) it if you could send a card to him at 27 Summer Valley Court, Greer, SC 29651.  

Tonight, was Thomas's 4th chemo treatment, tomorrow night will be his last.  I'm so glad that he hasn't gotten sick!  Thank you for your prayers!  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

He is still in our prayers. Thank you for the updates.

Teddy

Thomas has had another problem with infection, but his attitude is Great and Strong.

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2010 11:30 PM, EDT

From Clinta - This is the first moment I've had to write in the journal tonight after spending the afternoon at the hospital with Thomas.  

Last night, (technically very early morning), at 1AM, Thomas woke me and I took care of him with bathroom needs and thirst.  At 3AM, he woke me to tell me that he had blood dripping down the back of his head.  This statement was not uncommon or unusual for him to say to me, so although I did not think it suspicious, I wiped the back of his head with a kleenex.  The kleenex came back wet, (it's fairly dark in the room but I could tell that the wetness was not dark, like blood), so I assumed it was sweat.  Thomas will sweat profusely and at the same time tell me that he's freezing.  According to our nurses, this is due to a disconnect caused by the brain cancer, it's seen with a lot of brain cancer patients.  So, I didn't worry about it at the time.  He woke me again at 5AM and at 6AM and I finally got up at 7AM.  Pretty rough night.  

Barbara was feeding him breakfast and doing a crossword puzzle with him while I was getting dressed.  When I came down, she said that he had mentioned that his head hurt.  I walked around the bed to the left side and I was shocked by what I saw.  For reasons "officially" unknown, (I have my own suspicions), Thomas had 2 different places in his surgical suture that erupted.  Literally, there were 2 open places on his head that were draining blood and puss in substantial quantities.  

I was floored.  I immediately called the nursing service and requested a nurse come as soon as possible.  After considering it for about a minute, I call Dr. Matthews, our radiation oncologist who is also the medical director of Vista and explained the situation to her.  She went in to action also.  A nurse was dispatched to the house and upon examining Thomas, an ambulance was sent and he was taken to the emergency room at Greenville Memorial hospital.  

The doctor that we saw at the hospital is also on the board at Vista and he sat down with Barbara and me and said that we had 2 choices.  He could arrange for surgery again to try and clean out the infected area but that choice would require that Thomas stay in the hospital for a week or so and he said that he felt that there was a high likelihood that the new suture may not heal.  The second option was that he would open Thomas up in the emergency room with a local anethestic, clean out the area the best that he can, put a drain in and put him on high doses of antibiotics.  With either method, he has concerns that they will not be able to get on top of the infection.  I went with Option 2.  Thomas has been terrified of going to the hospital and it creates extreme anxiety for him.  I medicated him before we left today to help him with dealing with all the turmoil.  I knew that he would not want to be in the hospital for a week and the results with  Option 1 did not sound more promising.  

They gave him morphine before he was transported back home this evening and I have been advised to keep him on oxycontin because when the local wears off, there's going to be pain from the suture.  The nurses will start coming every day now to moniter his progress.  A nurse and a home health care aide came yesterday and neither noticed anything.  I honestly believe that the infection had probably be brewing but the outburst did not happen until early this morning.  

I am so angry.  I know that everyone tells me I'm not supposed to ask why and instead why not? but that's not comforting to me.  I know that I'm supposed to take these things in stride, but I'm not and I'm tired from watching Thomas have to go through these constant challenges.  Why???????   I don't want him to hurt anymore or have to deal with the what if's.  Today, while waiting for the ambulance to arrive, I watched my children's eyes and I knew they were scared.  

Thomas told Barbara and me today in the emergency room that he's lucky every day.  That will tear you up or at least it did me.  He has such a tremendous attitude and even when he's scared and wondering what's going to happen, his concern is far more for the children and me than himself.  

Another setback but we will plug along again tomorrow and the next day and the next.  It has been incredibly comforting to have Barbara with me this week, she's been my pillar of strength. I've had to make all kinds of decisions this week in areas that I've never dealt with before so I'm grateful that she spent this time helping me.  

I think with all I've said, you have lots to pray for on behalf of Thomas.  Please do.  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Happy Father's Day to all the Fathers out there and thanks for your Prayers for Thomas and his Family.

Ron Carbaugh

SUNDAY, JUNE 20, 2010 11:37 PM, EDT

From Clinta - It was a peaceful and calm Father's Day.  We all gathered for lunch and it was nice that we were together.  

The nurse who came earlier today said that Thomas's wound is healing well and that the drainage is little to none.  He continues to be very confused or sharp depending on the moment.  I think the main culprit is the medication.

Donna Lazar, cook extraordinaire, brought dinner over; grilled pork chops, potato casserole, peas, watermelon and pink lemonade cake.  Thomas said it was the best dinner ever but he says that every time Donna cooks a meal for us.  

I think I had mentioned that Thomas's cell phone was destroyed in a spilled drink accident.  When Michael and Alisa came over last Sunday, they brought with them a new phone to replace Thomas's old phone.  I've since gotten the SIM cards switched so now Thomas has a cell phone again.  Unfortunately though, he lost his entire address book.  Apparently, that information is on the phone and not the SIM card.  So, if you would like to call him, please do and leave a message with your phone number.  He has asked me several times to call certain people but I don't have anyone's phone number or feel free to send him an email and I can retrieve it.  

We continue to get cards, we appreciate your thoughtfulness and prayers.  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Neat thing happened for Thomas.  For those of you who never lived in the Carolina's SOC stands for Southern Oil Company.  Even though I collected Gas Station signs, pumps and maps for years I never owned any SOC sign.  

TUESDAY, JUNE 22, 2010 9:20 PM, EDT

From Clinta - Thomas had a visit today from his parents.  I had shared with them a few weeks back that the dishwasher had broken, so Dad brought a dishwasher motor with him that he had purchased when his own dishwasher broke.  As it turned out, his problem was something else so he didn't use the motor.  

Within seconds of eyeballing the situation, he said that the on/off valve for the water to go into the dishwasher had been turned off so with a twist of his hand, I'm back in business.  What a relief!  I'm not opposed to hand washing but I'm not fond of dirty dishes in the sink or counter.  When you have a 19 years old son living with you, there are always dirty dishes or glasses.

Mom brought her homemade lasagna and chicken bog.  We certainly had the most delicious use of carbohydrates and a friend of their's made a homemade pecan pie.  It's a wonder, I have the strength to type this after so much chowing down today.  Hannah and Trey joined us for lunch so it was nice for all of us to be together.  

Mom and Dad, many years ago owned a SOC gas station, years before convenience stores starting selling gas cheaper than Dad could even buy it.  The convenience stores really put the full service stations out of business.  He was full service with washing windows, checking your oil and also offered car repairs.  Thomas and his brother Terence grew up working at that station since they were young kids.  

This past weekend, in Charleston, they held a SOC gas station reunion.  When arriving, Mom and Dad were very surprised that the host had put together a big red box with Thomas's name on it and Get Well Wishes sentiment.  The attendees dropped cards, money and notes of encouragement.  These were people that Thomas may not have seen in the last 30 years but they were so gracious with their kind comments and for thinking of him.  Naturally, he was sad that he couldn't attend and see all these people that he grew up around.  

Overall, Thomas had a good day and is resting comfortably now.  I think tomorrow will be a low key day and he will be able to get more rest.  We appreciate your prayers and are grateful for the cards we get daily in the mail.  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Good to hear that so many people are taking notice of Thomas's condition.  I post often on the carebridge site... because I know it makes a difference and because Thomas is worth, the effort He is a brother... thankyou to all those here that post too...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thanks for the posts and the cards and a Special Thanks to Randy Kirkbride for his special gift.  I appreciate all the kind words and Prayers.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23, 2010 10:25 PM, EDT

From Clinta - I have been very concerned about Thomas's upcoming doctor visit with his oncologist.  As all of you know from multiple previous postings, Thomas gets very anxious about having to leave the house.  Rightfully so since his only methodology for doing that is by ambulance.  It is such an undertaking and it completely wears him out.  When the nurse came on Monday, I happened to be on a phone call upstairs and she told me that he was very upset that I was scheduling him to go have a MRI.  I'm not sure why he thought that, but that's not why I was on the phone.  

There is a question also of whether or not to continue the chemo.  There is no doubt that the chemo affected his recent infection but the general consensus is that the original infection was never completely cleared up so the chemo helped to facilitate it becoming active again, but it did not cause it.  One doctor, the oncologist is in favor of continuing the chemo and the radiation oncologist is not.  When I first found out about the infection, I had said no more chemo, it's too dangerous to risk.  But, now, I'm not sure and I want to make the best decision for Thomas.  

Our radiation oncologist, who I spoke with at length privately on Monday told me that she would call his primary oncologist and see if she would let Thomas forego the office visit.  Even as late as last week, the primary oncologist was insistent that he come into the office.  I have been truly dismayed by her attitude and inconsideration of what it means to Thomas to have to make that trip, particularly and only so that she can look at him and then send us right back home.  She won't do any testing because Vista does that now in our home.  Very frustrating, but at the same time, I'm not a doctor and I want to make sure that every need he has is covered.  

I found out today from the radiation oncologist that she got approval from the primary oncologist for Thomas to NOT have to come into the office.  Yay!!  Additionally, the radiation oncologist offered to come to our home and do an exam here.  From there, she and the primary oncologist will confer to determine whether Thomas should or should not have the chemo in July.  

I'm so appreciative of Dr. Matthews going to bat for Thomas otherwise we would have had to make another ambulance trip for a 10 minute lookover.  

He's doing about the same, eating fairly well and still experiencing a mixture of lucidity mixed with confusion.  A standard part of his confusion is his insistence on going into work.  He still talks all the time about Cryovac.  He got a call today from his boss, Susan Lowcavage, (she has been so incredibly kind to us throughout this experience), just catching up with him and then she asked to speak to me.  She wanted me to know that they will be posting Thomas's position as an opening and she wanted to make sure that he knew and would not be upset about it, she certainly didn't have to do that.  I told her not to worry about it, he knew several weeks ago that he was past his FMLA time and he will be ok with it.  I'm not sure that he would technically understand anyway.  

I have been so touched by the cards that we are still getting every day.  Thank you, it means so much to Thomas, I read them to him every night.  We also got a box of the best cookies from Randy Kirkbride in California.  Oh my gosh, they are the bomb and 300 of them!  I think that it's pretty traditional for cancer patients to lose a bunch of weight, but not with Thomas and it's easy to see why!  Between all the meals and goodies that he gets, it's a wonder that he hasn't gained weight!  (Not that we care, the doctors have said, let him eat any and everything he wants!!)  

Continue to pray and specifically for guidance about continuing the chemo, I need help in knowing what to do.  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Very difficult day on Saturday.

SATURDAY, JUNE 26, 2010 11:43 PM, EDT

From Clinta - Today has been a very bad day.  Over night, Thomas suffered either a stroke or seizure, we don't know which for sure.  The fact that he had had one, didn't become apparent until around noon today, when Thomas had a full blown seizure.  When conferring with the nurse that came to the house, she determined that something had to have happened overnight to explain his not waking or conversing since last night.  

When Thomas didn't wake this morning and peacefully slept, I figured he was getting a good night's sleep.  He was snoring and making all the common noises that he does every day when I checked on him.  As I do every Saturday morning, I left around 8:30 to have breakfast with my childhood friend Donna Lazar.  Both Hannah and Trey were here with him and I asked when I got back home if he had awakened while I was gone and they told me no.  Hannah went to work and Trey ran to Target to pick up a prescription for Thomas.

I went in to the dining room and gently asked Thomas if he would like something to eat.  He didn't answer but shook his head no.  I then held his glass of water to his mouth and was able to get him to drink a little.  I went back to the den and Trey called me on my cell to tell me that the key to my car had broken off in the ignition and he needed me to bring him another key.  I was slightly agitated in that I was here alone with Thomas and couldn't and shouldn't leave him by himself.  I told him I would call him back.  I had just hung up the phone when a beastly noise at a loud decibel came from the dining room.  

I ran into the dining room and Thomas was staring wide-eyed at the ceiling, literally frothing at the mouth, his lips were drawn up in a sneer exposing his gums and he was making a noise between a roar and a growl.  It was frighteningly like a rabid dog!  I was so scared that I felt my arms becoming numb.  I was yelling at Thomas to look at me, I was grabbing his arm and trying to get his attention.  I was shouting that he was scaring me, please stop and of course, there was no recognition from him whatsoever of who I was or that I was even beside the bed.  

I ran back and grabbed my cell, dialing as quickly as possible, Vistacare to have them send a nurse or doctor immediately.  In that space of time, Thomas had stopped the awful animalistic noise and when I went back in to him, he's eyes were closed and he began his usual groaning noise.  I still tried to get him to look at me or to respond and there was nothing.  

In the meantime, I called my friend Donna, I merely said the words, I need you and hung up and then called Trey.  I told him what was happening and hung up with him also.  Later he shared with me, that he stood outside the car and prayed to God to please allow the car to start.  He tried it again and it did.  He drove home at 80 miles an hour and ran in the door and grabbed me.  He was scared also and for the very first time since Thomas has been sick, my incredible son sat down in our den and cried.  That upset me as much as seeing Thomas.  Trey called Hannah, who literally walked off the job, she came home immediately and they've both been by my side all day.  

The nurse explained that after a seizure, Thomas will sleep very deeply and the seizure medicine will add to the sedatives in making him unresponsive.  It is incredibly hard to get medicine in him because it is so difficult to get him to even open his eyes and I have to ensure that he doesn't choke or get the medicine lodged in his throat or lungs.  

Tonight, he has started throwing up.  Hannah has made a run to the 24 hour pharmacy to get phenergan and valium suppositories.  The phenergan is for the vomiting and the valium is for the seizures.  I think the vomiting is due to the new seizure medicine and so they have told me to not give him anymore which is a huge risk now.  Valium, apparently, when originally manufactured was made as a seizure medicine so they want me to have it close by in case of another seizure.  He is throwing up in his sleep, he's not even aware of it.  We have him raised high in the bed to help prevent his choking and to help elevate pressure on his brain.  

I have been dealing with the dilemma of continuing the chemo.  When Thomas first had the reoccurence of the infection a week or so ago, I had emphatically decided to stop it.  Then this past week, in talking with a couple of his doctors, I was reconsidering it because I want Thomas to have every single opportunity available to fight this monster.  But at what cost?  So, I have prayed and prayed for an answer.  Dr. Matthews is scheduled to do a home visit this coming week and I had some hard questions for her because I know that sometimes, if not all the time, quality in life should over-rule quantity.  Personally, I would not want to live in a capacity that didn't allow me to be cognizant of the life around me and I know that Thomas felt the same way.  I have to wonder if today's episode wasn't God's way of letting me know that Thomas doesn't need to do any more chemo.  

I am on the roller-coaster ride of my life.  I am amazed at how I can feel one way at a particular time and a whole different way at another.  I am sad and angry and tired and scared.  I have had very little, if anything to be happy about for 4 months now, but I continue to be blessed by the magnitude of the support and love by my friends, Thomas's friends and even strangers who have offered various types of kindness.  Thank you for hanging in there with us.  We love you!



Ron Carbaugh

I know I haven't posted on Thomas' condition lately, but  Brother Ron has been keeping all of you posted. Now more that ever we need to say some prayers for Thomas and his family. Team Carmichael has endured more than any family should have to.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

I do not know what to say, but as always I am praying for all of you, May God give you rest and peace as you walk these dark days... My favorite scripture is "Jesus Wept"   I know He knows what is going on with me and I know He knows what is going on with you and it grieves him to tears... I wish there was more than just praying that I could do, Not that I think that is unimportant but I would love to be able to do something to help... just know we are Praying hard...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

I am just the messenger:  Thanks for everyones Prayers.

SUNDAY, JUNE 27, 2010 12:37 PM, EDT

From Clinta - I wish that I had positive news to report but I don't.  Thomas has not regained consciousness and he seems even more removed then he was yesterday.  He's not responding to any type of physical touch or verbal command.  He's not opening his eyes but does still move his right arm and leg.  He will pull the sheet up or move the sheet down.  

We are not able to give him any food or pills by mouth.  Water is given to him by a special instrument that the nurse gave me.  He appears to be very comfortable and he was given morphine this morning to help him with his stomach ache.  He threw up 4 times last night into this morning but that's stopped and I'm hoping that his stomach is feeling much better.

We continue to be hopeful that he will regain consciousness.  Each day that goes by that he doesn't, makes it less likely that he will.   Our regular nurse, Nika, will be coming over on Tuesday and depending on Thomas's status, will be able to share more information with us about his condition moving forward.  

I am so thankful that my friend Barbara Pittsenbarger is back with me to help me through this.  After learning of Thomas's seizure yesterday, she made plans to return today to stay with me this week.  So many things are happening right now, decisions and options that have to be discussed and determined, it's nice to have someone that you respect close by to help.  Both Barbara and Donna Lazar have been a rock for me since this whole journey began.  

This is taking a toll on Hannah and Trey who are very confused about the specifics of Thomas's current condition.  Hannah asked me tonight if Thomas was going to wake up.  I was honest with her and told her that I don't know.  I don't think anyone can answer that question right now.  Throughout the day, we are talking to him and telling him how much we love him.  We don't know if he can hear us or not, but we hope he can!  

Please pray for God to be merciful with Thomas.  From the day this whole thing began, I have asked for complete healing and a merciful touch for him.  Above all else, I don't want Thomas to be in any pain or suffer, I'm sure that you feel the same way.  We love you!




Ron Carbaugh

May God be with Thomas and your family during this most difficult time.  Joe

praying for Thomas and his family in this difficult time, may he find peace

This is a tough time and I am at a loss for words.  Thomas and his Family are real fighters and a True Family.  I Pray everyone that reads this appreciates life.  I cannot believe that Clinta has the strength to keep us informed daily.

TUESDAY, JUNE 29, 2010 12:40 PM, EDT

From Clinta - It's a little past midnight, I'm cried out and I'm too weary for words, literally.  As I shared with you in last night's post, Thomas's nurse, Nika came to our home today.  I wish that I could tell you that she was able to provide a magic cure or resolution or tell us anything that would give us hope that Thomas would survive this nightmare, but short of a miracle, Thomas is facing what is referred to as the end stage.  In my book, it's an ugly term for a very profound time in someone's life.

The phrase end stage is medical terminology for the period of time when a terminal patient begins to have either very specific or particular type symptoms in the process of dying.    A patient can be a textbook case or it can be a very complex scenario because a person can have one or all of the commonalities for this period that is designated as the time when your body begins to shut down or quit functioning in a way for you to survive.  

The very frustrating aspect is that, at this point for Thomas, Vista is in full belief that Thomas is in the beginning of the end stage but there is a very remote, miniscule possibility that he could  recover from his trauma over the weekend.  Their belief is that if there had been any hope for that, it would have happened by now.  

They advised me today to have Thomas's family come in to see him, for them to tell him that they love him.  As part of the end stage, he could still have very brief moments where he can talk and will recognize us.  But, those periods will be less and less as he starts to sleep more and more.  He will start to drink less, he may not eat anything more again and his body will start a natural shut-down process.  It doesn't feel natural to me but that's because I'm watching it happen to someone I love dearly.  

Hannah and Trey are distraught and for me, the pain is unbearable at times.  It's amazing to me that an emotional pain can manifest itself into a physical pain because my gut and heart feel as if they are torn apart.  It's absolutely surreal; at various points during the day it's as if my life is going along on a normal basis and then at others, I feel as if my world has collapsed.  All of these feelings can literally change hour by hour.  

I am unable to talk about my feelings for Thomas right now, it's too tender and raw.  I can't even type the words, but I will, I'm just not equipped to do that at this time.  Thomas's parents and brother and sister-in-law are coming in tomorrow.  I don't know how much time we have left, (the end stage typically can last from 1 day to 4 weeks), but every single minute of it exceeds being precious to us.  

Please pray for God's mercy for Thomas.  Just in the last few days, he has been experiencing head pain, they think the cancer may have metastasized in other areas of his brain.  I am giving him morphine generously because I don't want him to suffer at all.  Thank you for being there for us.  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

That is just gut wrenching for me to read. My heart just drops.

God look over this family and give them the strength to endure.

Patrick

It is so hard on us as friends and Brothers of Thomas to follow the bad news and rejoice with the good.  I can hardly imagine what it must be like for his family that have come to love him more than we would be able to.  In the mix we should not forget that there is a God and his Son that love him even more than all of us.  I pray in his name that this will be taken from Thomas in whatever way is His will.  I pray that comfort will come to Thomas' family however is best in God's eyes.

My Brother Thomas, Clinta, Hannah, and Trey we love you all and are with you in thought and prayer.  God's love is so much bigger than what we are capable of.  With God's promise of eternal life there is no end time.  No matter what happens a miracle will come.  We will continue to pray it is a earthly one and this dark time will pass.  If that is not in the plan then Heaven itself is a miracle with no pains.

I love you Brother Thomas and if you are not aware of it right now I will tell you again one day when we see each other again, be it here or above.

Either way these postings are a book that tell a hard fought journey of a good man and a loving family.

May God's peace and blessings be with you all now and always.

Larry P

Clinta
I have a hard time saying the right things at times like this and I feel so bad for you and your family.  Thomas is a great guy and I am proud to know him.  I am typing this with tears running down my cheeks, God bless Thomas and your family.
Rod Gorzny

Guys I don't know what to say..I've not checked this site in quite some time and I'm just in shocked about this..Thomas and I used to email one another ever so offen and I know I hadn't gotten an email from Thomas in quite awhile..but I just figured he was busy..I'm so sorry to here how sick he is and that I haven't taken the time over the last 5 or 6 months to email him..my prayers and wishes go out to Thomas & his Family..Buddy

Godspeed Thomas

Rod Whitman
Omaha, Nebraska
1972 Six Day (Rider)
1972 Six Day (Project)

We love you Thomas.
Dwight

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 30, 2010 12:32 AM, EDT

From Clinta - Thomas had some wonderful visitors today.  Early this morning, Thomas's mother and father arrived and shortly thereafter his brother Terence and his wife Melissa got to the house.  Dad and Terence, with Trey's assistance, were so incredibly helpful with mowing the grass, weed-eating and moving all of Thomas's motorcycles and parts out of the garage.  They were thankful to be able to spend some time with Thomas, even though Thomas showed very little response and recognition.  

As Vista shared with us, Thomas's sleeping periods are becoming longer and his waking moments much less frequent.  He is complaining of pain when he is conscious which I hate for him.  I've become very vigilant in making sure that he gets morphine and Ativan on a regular basis to try and keep the pain at bay.  

Tonight, Ken and Anne Norton visited.  Thomas loves them so much and even though Thomas never woke up, Ken spoke to him and I know that he could hear his words.  

The kids and me are trying to not allow the gravity of the situation to take over.  We remain focused on Thomas and getting certain tasks completed.  Having Barbara here with us is a God-send and another friend, Donna has been coming every afternoon to help out also.  

Continue to pray for God's will to be done and his mercy to be extended to Thomas.  I absolutely hate that Thomas has any pain at all!  We appreciate your prayers!  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Sending wishes and prayers to your entire family. Thomas sounds like a great guy.  Peace, Rob

THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2010 12:55 PM, EDT

From Clinta - There has been little change with Thomas.  His breathing has become more erratic but his vitals still remain strong.   Mike Gasque came to visit and although Thomas was not conscious, Mike talked to him.  I think it was hard on Mike to see Thomas because it's very different seeing him now then it was even as little as a week ago.  The difference is not in Thomas's physical appearance as much as it is the sadness of his demeanor, not being responsive and just laying there.  Mike has been such an incredibly dedicated friend, coming to visit us probably more than anyone else.  I know it's hard on him to see Thomas this way because Thomas has always been such a vibrant, energetic person and seeing him imprisoned in a 3 1/2 X 7 foot bed is heartwrenching.  Thomas has been such a trooper throughout this illness and he has complained little, but the few complaints he had were centered almost exclusively on being in the bed and not being able to be mobile.  

Dr. Ralph Carter of Brushy Creek came by also and was so uplifting.  He is a very nice man and very knowledgeable.  He was comforting at a time when there was a need.  My brother Scott came by this morning and became very emotional when he stood by the bed and told Thomas that he loved him.  There is a huge amount of tears being shed in our home but we are focused and determined to be a comfort to Thomas, to let him know everyday how much we love him!

A Vista nurse is coming everyday to check Thomas's vitals and status.  He gets extremely agitated when he is moved in any way.  He doesn't verbalize it but instead will moan and groan and grimace in a manner that is obvious he is very irritated.  

Please continue to pray for God's mercy on Thomas and that Thomas remains comfortable and pain free.  Thank you for all your support and concern.  We love you!


Ron Carbaugh

Clinta, I check each day to see Thomas'condition and each morning I spend a considerble amount of time in prayer. I shall not give up or give in, It is not much by comparison, but I am pleased to do it...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

I hate that I have to tell everyone who has rallied for Team Carmichael, but I got a call from Clinta's best friend Donna Lazar that Thomas has passed on to the Lord this afternoon. How I prayed that this call would never have to be made, but I know he won't be suffering anymore, and we'll see each other on God's best trails in Heaven.

Thanks to all of you who kept this vigil for Team Carmichael.

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

So very sad to lose our friend.  I look forward to seeing him again one day.  God Speed Thomas!  I will so very much miss you my Brother but I am happy you are with the Lord.  May God comfort Thomas' family in this hard hour.

I am reminded of a favorite quote I have tried to live by.

The clock of life is wound but once, and no man has the power to tell just when the hands will stop, at late or early hour.  Now is the time you own.  Live, love, toil with a will.  Place no faith in time.  For the clock may soon be still.

Larry P

May God bless Thomas and his family.   Joe

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/thomascarmichael

Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Thomas ended his Tough Battle with Brain Cancer today.  I will keep everyone posted.  Thanks for you thoughts and Prayers for Thomas and his Family.

FRIDAY, JULY 2, 2010 4:17 PM, EDT

From Clinta - For 4 1/2 months now, I've asked you to pray for Thomas and today I am requesting that your prayers be for Team Carmichael who lost their captain today.  Thomas died this afternoon, surrounded by Hannah, Trey and me and several very dear close friends.  We are devastated and unable to properly function at this time so please understand this is all I will post today.  I will however update later today with the service arrangements.  Very tentatively, this is NOT confirmed, we are looking to have a visitation Monday night 6pm - 8pm, a private burial for the family only on Tuesday morning at 8:30AM and then a Memorial Service for everyone at Woods Mortuary in Greer, SC at 2PM.  Thank you for your consideration of us at this time.  We love you!

Ron Carbaugh

Thomas.....we will miss you.  As this journey ends your next one begins.  Cut us some trails and look in on us every once in a while. Just know that our lives are less with you gone.....Godspeed, brother.
Big Dave Withrow

I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to "Team Carmichael" on this sorrowful day. I pray for the Lord to comfort you all and to accept Thomas into his waiting arms.

Dave McCullough

Our Thoughts and prayers go out to the Carmichael family.
  God Speed... Thomas    
       The Johnstone Clan

Godspeed, Thomas.  We will miss you.
Dwight & Debbie Rudder

Here are the latest posts.  I will not be able to make the trip to South Carolina as our Home in Houston was robbed this week and I am trying to get things back to normal.  Thomas was a Very Brave person and fought hard.  I will miss him as his Friendship was priceless.  Thanks for all the great posts for Thomas and his Family.

FRIDAY, JULY 2, 2010 11:34 PM, EDT

Fom Clinta - Although not technically confirmed until we meet with the mortuary tomorrow, they have indicated to me that they feel certain that they will be able to accomodate these arrangements:   Visitation on Monday, 7/5 6p - 8p; Memorial Service on 7/6 2pm at Woods Mortuary, 300 West Poinsett Street, Greer, SC 29650, 864-877-3351.  

Additionally, I know that there may be some people traveling from out of town so Donna checked and got a special rate at the Holiday Inn Express right here in Greer, 5 minutes from the funeral home.  If you tell them that you are with the Carmichael Funeral party, the rate is $ 72.  The address is 1315 W. Wade Hampton Blvd, Greer, SC 29650, 864-877-0076.  There are lots of other hotels in the Greenville area but this one is the closest to the mortuary.  

I will let you know definitively that the arrangements above are finalized.

SATURDAY, JULY 3, 2010 1:39 AM, EDT

From Clinta - I won't be posting or using caring bridge much longer even though I am so grateful that we had this platform to communicate to our friends and family and it was such an encouraging tool for Thomas.  I will be saving the journals and posts for Hannah and Trey, it will be something they will treasure and read from time to time.  So if in the next few days you feel so inclined, I'm sure they would enjoy reading tributes or antidotes about their Dad.  I know it would be very helpful to all of us in the next few months.  Thanks so much!




Ron Carbaugh

Godspeed Thomas.

Brian

Even when Thomas left us he did it on a special Day.

SATURDAY, JULY 3, 2010 10:47 PM, EDT

From Clinta - Hannah has teased me about saying that I won't be posting any more yesterday and then I post several more times.  I am not responsible for my actions, deeds or words these days.  It is inconceivable to me that it's been a little over 24 hours since Thomas has left us to go live with Jesus, friends and family in heaven.  Thomas went home on the anniversary of my father's death 39 years ago, both died on July 2nd, so that date will forever be etched in my heart.  His memorial service will be held on our 26th anniversary so both occasions have dates that are already legendary to me.  But, if it was to be that we were to lose him then I don't consider it a bad thing that Thomas passed on my Dad's death anniversary, I think it symbolizes that my Dad was waiting to greet him and give him a hug for taking such great care of his daughter and for being a devoted father to Hannah and Trey.  I think it's a fitting tribute that we are celebrating his life on the same day that we married.  Since God decided that it was time for Thomas to come home, then we will celebrate his being cancer and pain free and that he and I had a love story for 26 years.  

The arrangements as I stated yesterday are basically the same with one small change that was not optional.  The visitation will be on Monday night at Wood Mortuary from 6pm to 8pm.  The Memorial service will be on Tuesday at 1pm NOT 2pm.  We are having a private burial on Tuesday morning that will be officiated by Buddy Waters, our former Sunday School teacher.  I met with Wood Mortuary today and they apparently provide information on their website regarding the arrangments and his obituary will be in the Greenville, Charleston and Florence newspapers tomorrow, (Sunday), at least I know that Greenville's will be, not positive about the other two.  

If you need additional information, I have 2 very dear friends that are helping me coordinate everything.  Feel free to call them with any questions:  Barbara Pittsenbarger, 803-206-3570 and Donna Lazar, 864-431-4082.  Please continue to pray for Team Carmichael, we need comfort in the months to come.  We love you!



Ron Carbaugh

Clinta,

You are an extraordinary woman.  I am not sure I have seen such inner and outer strength in a man or a woman in my lifetime as what I have seen through your postings these past few months.  Thomas was an extraordinary guy and it is easy to see how you two were such a pair.  Team Carmichael is an inspiration to us all.  May God heap blessings and comfort on you both now and the months ahead.  

Larry P

Thomas Carmichael Jr.   |   Visit Guest Book

Thomas Malcolm Carmichael, Jr. of Greer, SC, beloved husband, father and son, 52, passed away on July 2, 2010 at his home. He fought a valiant battle against brain cancer.
Thomas was born in Mullins, SC on March 3, 1958 and graduated from St. Andrews High School in 1977. He attended multiple vocational schools, Greenville Technical College and was employed by Cryovac/Sealed Air in Simpsonville, SC for 15 years.
Thomas was married to his wife, Clinta for 26 years and they have two children, Hannah, 20 and Trey, 19 of the home. Thomas was a member of New Spring Community Church and was a devoted Christian. He was a dirt bike enthusiast who loved riding in the woods and restoring vintage motorcycles. He has been flat track racing since he was a young boy, successfully placing in many races. He was an active member of the Penton Owners Group and enjoyed competing in vintage motorcycle racing. Thomas is survived by his wife Clinta, daughter Hannah, son Trey, of Greer, his parents, Malcolm and Shelby Carmichael of Marion, SC, and his brother Terence and his wife Melissa of Summerville, SC. A visitation service will be held at The Wood Mortuary, 300 West Poinsett Street, Greer, SC 29650 on Monday, July 5th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and a Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, July 6th at 1 p.m. at The Wood Mortuary. Memorials may be made to Joshua's Way, P.O. Box 1605, Greer, SC 29652. Online condolences may be made at //www.thewoodmortuary.com

Published in The Greenville News on July 4, 2010

Ron Carbaugh

Rest in peace Thomas Carmichael.  God knows you deserve it.

Although I had heard and read of Thomas for years around the vintage enduro scene, I did not meet him until last year when he and I helped Greg Holder produce the inaugural Carolinas White Lightning Cross Country Classic.  

He was a fine fellow and definitely a kindred spirit.

Thomas was invaluable help to Greg in laying out and constructing the wonderful course for our race at K&S Kartland near Fountain Inn, South Carolina.

Thomas and his family worked tirelessly manning the admission gate at our event, through the torrential rains that picked our weekend to end Upstate South Carolina's worst drought on record, and the resultant mud and slop.

In retrospect, Greg and I feel the brain cancer was already affecting Thomas on that wet weekend in March, as he just did not feel up to his game.  

Although all who knew Thomas will miss him dearly, we can take solace in knowing he now is free of pain in the presence of God.

Godspeed brother Thomas.  We will miss you.

Sincerely,

Al Roof

Rest in Peace, Thomas and God's blessings and comfort for your family.

Lew Mayer

Godspeed Thomas,Our Prayers go out to You and Yours.  Bill&Michelle

My deepest condolances to the family of Thomas Carmichael.  It is clearly evident by these many, many posts from Thomas' motorcycling family that he enjoyed a great number of friends, who all thought very highly of him.  No man could hope to leave behind a greater legacy.  My personal memories of Thomas are that of a kind and very personable gentleman, who was great fun to be around.  Thomas' positive spirit will be with us always, and he will be greatly missed.

Godspeed & RIP Thomas. Our sincerest thoughts and condolonces to the entire Carmichael family.


Mike & Charlene Burgess

I have to agree with my Penton brothers, Thomas was the finest example of what it means to be a Man.. And Clinta, I know you are hurting and that is ok.. but I hope one day you can see and be proud of the way you and your kids handled the last few months, I could only wish that when it is my time I am loved as much by my family and my friends.. God Speed Thomas. Also know that I will continue to pray for team Charmaichael... you all deserve God medals
May the Peace of God cover you like Amazon Rain.

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

Thoughts and prayers sent to the entire family. God Bless

1974 Penton 250 Hare Scrambler
1973 Honda CL 100
1978 Suzuki RM 125
1983 Honda XL 185
1993 Yamaha RT 180

I saw an epitath once that describes Thomas and Team Carmichael
             Here lies a man who,
             But space is wanting for that,

             Think of all that a man should be,
                And that is what he was.

   Clinta and family, you are in our prayers daily.
                   Hank


Hank Rinehart

prayers for his family, godspeed Thomas

Our hearts go out to Team Carmichael.I'm just kind of numb from this.Godspeed Brother Thomas.
                                Ric,Maggie,+Malcolm


ric emmal

Clinta, Brother Ron, friends and family of Thomas,
In the Kingdom of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, there is a place reserved for those of us who believe without reservation, and those who go out of their way to help others, thinking not of theirselves. In that special place I pray, and am certain, that you will find Thomas, rejoicing amidst lost friends and dwelling in the blessing of our Lord, and knowing that there are many, many, more dear friends that will eventually become a part of that celebration, all in their own time, and the calling of our Lord. Amen, Mike

Michael R. Winter
I enjoy rebuilding and appreciating Pentons!
1974 250 HS Pentons-1980 KTM 175-400'S

This is a tough read for me.  Thanks Michael Winters for your wonderful post.

TUESDAY, JULY 6, 2010 7:17 PM, EDT

From Clinta - Thomas's visitation was last night and we had around 200 people from all over come to visit with the Carmichael family.  I was so surprised to see faces that I haven't seen in 20 and 30 years.  The minister and friend that married us, Jimmy Cox who is on a sabbatical from Africa made the trip from Charleston and I was so excited to see him!  At points, it was overwhelming how emotional it was to meet new friends and see old ones.  Hannah had made a DVD of her Dad, put to music and it was awesome.  We had set it up in another room for people to be able to watch and see Thomas from a baby to a picture of him last year in Myrtle Beach, it was great!  

I can't possibly thank everyone through this venue who have been with us yesterday and today.  The flowers, plants, calls and cards have been more than we would ever have expected.  I know that if Thomas could have heard, (and I'm hopeful that he did), all the wonderful things that people have said about him, he would have been in awe.  He was amazed by the responses that he had gotten through caring bridge.  

We held a private burial this morning for him, officiated by Buddy Waters, our former Sunday School teacher.  It was perfect, literally.  There was a breeze that kept us wonderfully cool and Buddy's words were unbelievably supportive, kind, intuitive and comforting.  There were only 11 of us there and everyone came away saying, it could not have been better.

The Memorial Service was held this afternoon, officiated by Dr. Ralph Carter, who just in the last couple of months has adopted us.  He and his church, Brushy Creek Baptist have been a rock for us.  He and his staff of ministers had someone come sit with Thomas everyday in the hospital and then visited often in our home.  Their care team has come and cut our grass for us and today brought a meal that, well, there's no way I could possibly do it justice with mere words.  I told the person that brought the food that there was enough for 125 people!  Probably not 125, but I know that there's leftovers in my refrigerator and freezer and 4 or more other people left with sizable leftovers.  

The service today was extremely simple, as intended.  Jerry Stepp sang 3 songs, Amazing Grace, My Chains Are Gone; I Will Rise, both of those songs by Chris Tomlin and the closing song was Save A Place For Me, by Matthew West.  There were  eulogies given by Mike Gasque, Richard Baughman, Ken Norton, Susan Lowcavage, Barbara Pittsenbarger and then Kathy Vass read mine for me.  

I know that Thomas has friends from the West Coast to the East.  I know that there are many more people that were unable to attend today due to distance or it being 4th of July week and vacations.  Because of that, I have decided to post my eulogy through caring bridge so that the friends of Thomas that could not attend will have an opportunity to read what I wrote, how I felt about him and a little about Thomas.  I will warn you, it's pretty long.  

I know that I will post one more time because I have a specific message to leave, but I'm nervous about quoting a number because I seem to always backtrack but that's my intention.  So many people said to me at the visitation that they liked reading the journal and the posts each day and that it was going to seem odd not to read it anymore.  I feel the same way.  It's been therapeutic for me to write it and there have been many nights that I didn't want to, but I always did it for Thomas because it was so helpful to him.  

Here's my eulogy:
 
Hello, my name is Kathy Vass and I am a friend of Clinta's. Believing that the message is far greater than the messenger, Clinta has asked me to read her eulogy for Thomas during this service today. I can think of no greater honor than to be asked and of no greater gift to be able to give.
 

When Clinta sat down to write this eulogy, she felt completely overwhelmed with the daunting task of encapsulating her 26 years with Thomas in a 5 to 7 minute timeframe.  Frankly, it would be impossible.  So instead, she decided that she would share with you her feelings about Thomas and some experiences that reflected on how he was an individual, a child of God, a husband and a father. Her goal today is to celebrate and honor the most important man in her life.  And here are her words:


Thomas has always had an enthusiasm and exuberance for life that was so apparent by his excitement in most everything he did.  As most of you know, he loved dirt bike and flat track racing, actually most any kind of racing, but especially racing through the woods.  He was extraordinarily talented and most the time one of the fastest riders on a track or in the woods.  He loved it!  For years now, he has been restoring vintage Penton motorcycles and he was passionate about it to the point of almost being obsessed.  When he became affiliated with the Penton Owners Group, he made so many precious friends, people he referred to as brother.  Thomas loved riding and there's really nothing he liked better than to gear up and hit the trails.  He's probably already checked out the whoop-di-dos in heaven.
 

Thomas and I dated for 3 months before getting married.  Thomas always said, "When you know something's right, why wait?" We met while working for the same company and we had a whirlwind romance.  As is normal for any new relationship, in the early stages there was some adapting and learning the ways of your new-found love.  For example, Thomas always kept his cars meticulous, not a crumb in sight, whereas my cars, well, it was not uncommon to find fast food wrappers, clothes, books, CD's, all kinds of stuff commonly found in landfills. You would actually run the risk of something growing on your pants leg if you were in my car long enough.  This naturally made Thomas crazy because to him a car was to be respected and cared for as if it was a living thing.

 

Shortly before we married, my mother and her husband decided to come to Charleston where we were living to meet the husband-to-be.  I had not a single reservation about whether or not they would like Thomas; I knew they would love him.  Actually, my fear was that he would not want to marry into my loony-tune family.  It made me very nervous but I felt that on some level, this would be a test of Thomas' fortitude.  Since we were on the coast, my Mom and her husband were very excited about getting to eat fresh seafood so I suggested we go to one of the many seafood stores, pick up some fresh shrimp and we would have a boiled shrimp dinner.  Everyone was looking forward to that!  Thomas, wanting to make a good impression on his future mother-in-law told us to take his car.  Truly, his car looked as if it had just been driven off the car lot.  So, off I go with my mother to buy shrimp and run some errands.  We purchased 5 pounds of shrimp, and as is standard procedure, the shrimp was put in very thin poly bags.  Somehow, in the ride between the store and home, with a few stops in between, my mother inadvertently tore the shrimp bag open so by the time we got home, shrimp juice had saturated the entire passenger side of the car.  This was not particularly alarming to me – or my mother - thinking that we could just wipe out the car when we got home.  But, when Thomas met us at the car to help carry in the packages, the minute the door was opened (we had kept the windows closed because it was scorching hot and we had the a/c on full blast), he immediately smelled the shrimp.  It was if someone had yelled Code Red. He told us to get out of the car, get the shrimp out and get out of his way.  For hours, he worked in the car to get rid of the smell.  I repeatedly came outside to ask if I could help and he just keep saying, "I need to be alone."  Until the day he sold that car, he said he felt like everywhere he went people thought he smelled like fish.  He never allowed his mother-in-law in the car again and insisted that he would buy the shrimp from then on.

 

That particular event confirmed to me Thomas's love for me, and his ability to put up with my family.  So, even though we may have smelled fishy, we were married on July 6, 1984 - 26 years ago today.

 

We had a very small private ceremony in a tiny church in Givhans, SC.  I got a new family with Thomas's parents, Malcolm and Shelby, a new brother, Terence, and a few years later, a new sister when Terence married Melissa. Thomas became another son to his mother-in-law and a brother to my four brothers and sister.  Thomas was a man that had an incredible desire to be loved, and to be a doting father and devoted husband to the family that he and I created.  He loved me as much as is possible for one person to love another.  He would tell me all the time that I was as much a part of him as the blood that flowed through his veins, that it was not possible for anyone else to love me as much as he did.  We had the kind of marriage that was a partnership in every way.  For 26 years, Thomas was my best friend and the love of my life.  He had a thousand ways to say, I love you, without ever saying it at all.  I would refer to him as my soul mate – long before Governor Sanford made it a bad word!

 

Seriously, our souls were as one.  Thomas often would surprise me with gifts and presents.  When I traveled by plane, he would meet me at the airport with flowers and tell me that he missed me terribly; that he felt a hole in his heart until we were reunited again.  Since last Friday, I have had that same hole in my heart and the only thing that gets me through the day right now is that I know that there will be a day when our souls reunite and there will be no more sadness or emptiness.  

 

Thomas and I have 2 wonderful children, Hannah and Trey.  The love that we feel and have felt for our children is not adequately put into words.  I'm sure for those of you that are parents, you can completely relate to this love that is never-ending and unconditional.  Thomas was amazed by his children.  He often would say, I can't imagine what I've done in my life to deserve Hannah and Trey.  God has given me the greatest gift a man can be given with a wife that I love without boundaries and two children that have given me the greatest joy I've ever felt.  When both of the children were born, Thomas cried like a girl.  He was elated and overwhelmed by these little people who are the spitting image of him.

 

 

Even though Hannah and Trey have completely different personalities, they both encompass so many of Thomas's traits.  Thomas will always be with us because his legacy goes on with the lives of Hannah and Trey.  All they have to do to see their father is look in the mirror.  When Trey was in first grade, his elementary school had a field day with lots of different contests and competition.  It had been promoted for weeks and there was a good deal of ribbing among the kids about who could win the most prizes.  One of those contests was a relay race.  Trey, who was 11 pounds, 5 ounces at birth, was one of the biggest and most athletic kids in the class.  During the race, another boy fell and Trey without any thought to his own standing in the race, stopped to help the boy get back up.    The coach at the school was amazed by this and shared it at the year-end assembly with all the parents that were in attendance for awards day.  He said that Trey's compassion for his teammate was an attribute that would serve him well in life.  Thomas told me that day, "I would never have been able do that!"

 

When Hannah was in middle school, she decided to run for Vice-President of the school body.  She put together posters and a slogan, stickers and paraphernalia to pass out to the students to garner votes.  Hannah wrote the most incredible campaign speech – one that the teachers collectively agreed was the best and one that Hannah delivered with casual ease.  Thomas told me then, "I would never have been able to do that!"

 

Trey in high school played football for Blue Ridge as an offensive lineman.  He would go every day in the blasting sun during the summer months and work out with the team for hours.  It was hard, hot, and exhausting but Trey loves the sport of football.  Thomas and I never missed a game with Trey's Dad being the loudest voice from the stands. And even though he sometimes yelled out the wrong things and might have embarrassed me a little, there was no doubt that Thomas was Trey's biggest cheerleader. Thomas told me then, "I would never have been able to do that!"

 

When Hannah entered the Miss Relay pageant in high school, it was her first attempt at competing in a beauty pageant.  She was surrounded by girls that had been competing for years, girls that had all the pomp and stance of professional beauty pageant contestants.  This was new territory for Hannah and certainly she didn't know the ins and outs or the politics of this type of competition.  But she entered it and participated as if she was a pro.  She walked that stage like she owned it and while out on the stage, she could hear her Dad's voice yelling, "Go Bug!",  a nickname he gave her when she was a little baby.  Again Thomas told me, "I would never have been able to do that!"

 

Thomas often told me that he thought his children were better people than he was and that he was so proud of them and their accomplishments!  But, he was most proud of the fact that they are good, kind, compassionate people that know right from wrong, understand the value of family and that they stand committed to having a relationship with Christ which offers them eternal life.  This belief gives Hannah and Trey comfort in knowing that they will be reunited again with their Dad.  Thomas empowered them to be strong and confident, to know that they can accomplish anything or aspire to be whatever they want to be.  He gave them the greatest gift a father can give their child. He believed in them!  His heritage to his children isn't words or possessions but an unspoken treasure, the treasure of his example as a man and as a father.

 

Thomas was one of those guys that could not stand in a long line without complaining out loud so that all the people around him could hear.  He absolutely went crazy about most of the drivers on the road - no telling what pieces of advice he would offer them!  He would get frustrated if the golfers ahead of him on the course moved too slowly.  My sense of direction would give him heartburn.  And, if anyone ate potato chips, pretzels, popcorn or the worst, smacked gum around him, he would either ask them to move or he would get up and move away.  These were traits that most of his friends knew about him.

 

But there are other traits that a lot of people didn't know about Thomas.  He would frequently pull over to help a stranded motorist with changing a tire or jumping a car battery.  He helped friends move from one house to another, and would work on their cars if they needed help with changing the brakes or fixing some type of mechanical problem.  Thomas could fix almost anything - a broken wagon or a broken heart.  Thomas cried when our dog Indy died and he sacrificed going to the Carolina Bowl game because our water heater wasn't working quite right.  He often counseled friends who were having marital problems or were just down.  He loved life, he loved his family and he loves God.

 

When Thomas found out that he had brain cancer, although scared many times over, he wondered what God had planned for him.  He often told me that he knew that God had put him in this position because He wanted Thomas to use it to do something.  Thomas spent literally hours over the course of the past several weeks pondering what God's plans were for him.  He wondered if his trial was meant to be a testimony to others that didn't know Christ.  He questioned whether he was meant to be an inspiration to others in similar situations.  Thomas was a cheerleader to other patients during his 3 weeks at Roger C Peace Rehab center and he felt that he had been given an ability to motivate.  Throughout his illness, he wanted to honor God and be His instrument in whatever role God had assigned specifically to him.  It was incredibly important to him that all of his friends and family be reunited with him in heaven.
 

I want everyone sitting here today to know the magnitude of Thomas's life here on earth.  As Peter Marshall said, "The measure of life is not it's duration, but it's donation." Thomas had an incredibly short life but one filled with tenderness and courage, laughter and love, and most of all, integrity.  Thomas represented the very definition of integrity.  He was a man of character and honor and he was always steadfastly loyal to his friends and family.  

 

Thomas will be missed beyond comprehension.  He has touched so many lives and has been an inspiration not only through his illness but in the daily way that he led his life.  It is going to be hard going forward for Team Carmichael without our captain, but we will get through each day knowing that it is what Thomas would have wanted for us.  He made us Team Carmichael by his example and we will try each day to live up to his expectations.  He often said to me, Hannah and Trey, "We are Team Carmichael and together we cannot be defeated!"

 

The next song, 'Save A Place For Me' is dedicated to Thomas from Team Carmichael.




Ron Carbaugh

May we learn from this man and his family.

Hank Rinehart

Thank you for posting the updates and eulogy Ron.  I have always considered the POG to be an extension of my family and Thomas was a wonderful member.  My thoughts and prayers are with all of Team Carmichael.  Godspeed Thomas!

Kent Knudson

This is the final post from Thomas' Wife Clinta.  I just want to thank everyone who has emailed, called or I have spoke to in person for all the kind words and thoughts about Thomas and his wonderful Family.  


TUESDAY, JULY 13, 2010 10:19 PM, EDT

From Clinta -
Hello caring bridge readers!  It is my intention that this will be my last post and I will be deactivating the account at the end of July.  I'm leaving it up long enough for any final posts and I will be purchasing a caring book which caring bridge provides as a service to anyone who wants to have them give you the posts and journals in book form.  I think that Hannah and Trey will one day want to look back over them, as well myself.

 

Tonight's post is dedicated to all the people who have supported Thomas and Team Carmichael through his illness and ordeal.  There are literally hundreds of you and I wish that I could mention each of you by name but that obviously is not possible.  There are specific people that went above and beyond so to speak, in providing help around the house, food, visits, a shoulder to cry on, gifts, cards, posts, and on and on and at this point in my life, I don't trust myself to single out those people and I would be aghast if I accidentally left someone's name out.  You know who you are, you know what you did for us and we can't adequately thank you enough.

 

I've always believed that you can tell a lot about a person by the company that he keeps.  If you are a joyful person, than most likely you are surrounded by happy people.  If you are a miserable person, as the expression goes, you're circle is probably made up of negative people.  Through the last 4 ½ months, Thomas was surrounded by loving, giving, caring and compassionate people and that's the standard by which Thomas should be measured because he was all of those things.  Certainly, he had the ability to be surly, but Thomas had a huge heart and a great capacity for love.

 

Hannah, Trey and I are struggling to make sense of Thomas's young death and we know that we won't get those answers here on earth.  We miss him terribly every day as I'm sure his parents, brother, sister-in-law and many of his friends do also.  Trey and I will find ourselves whispering in the kitchen so we don't wake him or I will stop at different points in the day to give him a call and then the sharp and painful realization that he's not here anymore will strike a gut-piercing blow.

 

The other night I was in the den and heard a hissing noise behind the refrigerator.  I called Trey and he pulled the refrigerator out for me and behind it is a canister attached to copper tubing, (I think it has to do with the water filtering to the refrigerator) and it was hissing like a snake.  We both just stared at it wondering what to do next??  It acted like it could explode and Trey said, "Mom, this is a Dad thing, I don't know what to do!"  And he's right, it is a Dad thing, right along with a million other things that Thomas did for us everyday because he always took care of us and it was just our way of life at the Carmichael household.

 

Thank you so much from Team Carmichael for the magnitude and generosity of your prayers and support during Thomas's illness.  There have been other repercussions from the caring bridge activity besides being so inspiring to Thomas, Hannah, Trey and I.  It was very touching that at the visitation and memorial service complete strangers felt like they knew other people just through the postings.  It truly is a small world.

 

Team Carmichael is strong and determined to continue on in the manner that Thomas would have wanted.  We deal daily with our loss and we are comforted in knowing that he has perfect health, is no longer sad or frustrated and that we will be reunited again one day.  Until that day, we will value each day as a gift and be thankful for all the many blessings that we have and especially each other.  I would encourage you to utilize caring bridge if you have any friends or family members that have a long term illness, it has been a God-send for us and it's amazing to me that it's survives exclusively on donations.

 

Thank you so much!  We love you!



Ron Carbaugh

A condolence card was signed by everyone who was at the POG meeting, Saturday at the AMA Vintage Days, and it was mailed to Clinta and her family. At the beginning of the meeting a silent time was held to acknowledge the transition of Thomas. He will be dearly missed by all of the POG family.

Clinta, thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings during Thomas's ordeal. You have touched my heart and everyone else that has read your postings.

Ron, I can't thank you enough for taking the time to post Clinta's logs on this forum to keep the POG family informed.

Alan Buehner

It's been a tough 2wks, and trying to find the words to express my thoughts about Thomas. If it wasn't for this fine group of people here at POG, I doubt that I would have known Thomas, since he had already moved away from the Lowcountry. But the comradery of this group allowed us to meet and become friends. You all were like a family to him, and he considered it an honor to have met some of you at Mid-Ohio, as I do also. Thanks for your prayers and support. He'll be missed, but not forgotten.

I posted this on CaringBridge earlier:

Wednesday, July 14, 2010 2:17 PM, EDT
My Dearest Team Carmichael,

  It's been a tough 4 1/2 months, and we all could only stand by and pray that Thomas would pull through this ordeal. The support and love that you have shared with us all has been extraordinary.
  I was in awe at how all of his friends could get up there and express their love of the times they had shared with Thomas, as I couldn't have been able. Like you told Barbara, that she'd be too emotional, I would have been also. And I would have lost that bet you made with her.
   Just introducing myself to Richard Baughman, and sharing my short memories, I got all choked up. I had known Richard's brother Kenny when he worked for the Ports Authority in the '90s. Then Mike Gasque tells me we were in the Sea Cadets together around '72?. I had completely forgotten that. Then it turns out his wife grew up across the street from my cousins in Anderson.  It truly was mind boggling.
  I still can't believe that we grew up here in the Lowcountry, and didn't meet somewhere on the bikes in the woods. We knew a lot of the same people, but I never got across the Ashley to ride Chisolm trail until it was just about closed.
  If I hadn't kept my old Penton, and joined the Penton Owners Group, I doubt that mine and Thomas' trail would have crossed, but I am blessed to have known him these short 8yrs. We went to Mid-Ohio twice, and he tried to get me to a Reunion Ride, but I didn't have a bike together to ride.
   Riding at Enoree, Parsons Mtn, and Wambaw  was a special time, along with helping him, Robert,  Al, and Greg with the White Lightning Enduro. Those memories will last forever, but I wonder what it would have been like if our trails had crossed sooner.
   God Bless you Clinta, Hannah, and Trey. And we'll remain in touch with you all. We'll miss Thomas, but never forget him.

Godspeed TC.

Bobby

Robert Manucy



Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S

Thomas, now that you are no-longer with us, I cannot convey, or put into words, a feeling life. Just having returned from a 1650 mile trip to the great woods our country has given us, brings me a message of hope and desire. Near the end of my journey, while I was playing pool in Oak Creek Col. a song came over the jukebox, words from John Prine,,,All the snow has turned into water............

My heart, shed a tear.......you will be missed...Tom
http://cone.viawest.net/users/dkwracer/savetwo/

Thanks Tom as you have been a Friend for many years.  My loss of Thomas goes deeper than anyone can understand, as he was just a nice guy that loved Pentons.  I will always stay in touch with his Family.  Your Friendship and post is greatly appreciated.

Ron Carbaugh

Last Sunday I visited with Thomas' Family and visited Thomas at the cemetery.  Beautiful location, real quiet and he has several shade trees.  Thanks for everyone caring and your thoughts and Prayers for Thomas and his Family.

Ron Carbaugh

Thanks Ron for all you have done for the Carmichael family, For those of you who care to Pray, please do continue to Pray, Clinta and the family are still in great need. There is a huge hole in their lives and need the comfort and strength that it provides...

Thom Green,Still crazy after all these years!
76' 250 MC5 (orginal owner)74'
250 hare scrambler (project bike)

R.C.,As always you are a true Brother and went the extra mile for Team Carmichael.We appreciate all you do for so many in the extended Family we call POG.Hoping all the best for Thomases'family thru these tough times.
                                                Ric

ric emmal

Brother Ron,
I spoke to Clinta the following week, and she was very appreciative of your visit, even if it was for only a short time. I wish I'd have known you were going up there. It would have been good to see you also. Take care, and we'll see you another time.



Robert Manucy
72 Berkshire
72 Six Day
82 Honda cr250r
04 BMW K 1200 GT - KIA in N. Ga. - 32987 smiles
08 BMW K 1200 S